by Sarah Koszyk

The holiday season is with us.  Celebrations and holiday parties abound. Along with all of the festivities we need to remember to enjoy ourselves while maintaining our wonderful habits and health during the holidays.

Holiday Habits Redefined

• Remember to eat every 4-5 hours or have a snack in order to not skip meals or eat at irregular meal times, which can result in the risk of overeating.
• Share portions when eating out at restaurants. It makes the occasion more intimate and special.
• Carry appropriate snacks such as 5 dried apricots, 6 almonds, and 1 Babybell lite cheese in a plastic bag so that the desire to grab those holiday sweets is diminished.
• Eat slowly at the festivities. By enjoying one another’s company, it takes longer to chew and digest the food. After about 20 minutes, our bodies recognize satiety which will assist one from over-eating.
• Bring a healthy dish to the holiday festivities. Not only will others enjoy the dish, but you’ll have something light and healthy to eat, too.
• When at the party, don’t deny yourself the pleasure of tasting food. Instead, choose a few favorite dishes you’d like to try and take small portions of each. A good portion size is about the size of your palm.
• Determine your goals for the holiday season.  For example, do not make food the center of attention. Instead, focus on enjoying other activities. Mentally go through the event, picturing your self as a success.
• Stick with your plan. By maintaining and planning, we can be prepared for times when we might be hungry or tempted.
• Believe in yourself. Remember your commitment to strive towards your goals and you can stick with it.

Remember to relax and enjoy yourself this season! Take a breath! Take a quick stretch. Stress can lead to imbalance and that can result in excessive eating. By sticking with these healthy holiday habits and protecting yourself from stress overload you can treasure the moments and stay focused on your goals.