Thanksgiving, and the holiday season, is upon us and it can be a difficult time to stay healthy. I’d like to share some quick tips for healthy eating during the holiday season. The most important tip is to be prepared. When we aren’t prepared, it’s easier to make poor food choices.
If you will be visiting friends and/or family, give the party host a call to ask what they dishes they will be serving. Let’s say the host mentions a salad, you could ask that the dressing be placed on the side so that you can add as little (or none) when you create your plate. Leave the leftovers at the host’s house so that they won’t tempt you the following day.
If you are hosting a holiday meal, I challenge you to look at using healthier substitutes in your menu.
- Use healthy fruits and vegetables – many times you can “hide” veggies in your dishes!
- Reduce the amount of oil and butter used in your recipes.
- Try fat-free and lower sodium broths.
- Use stevia instead of sugar where possible.
- Use almond milk and other non-dairy milk to save on fat and calories and increase nutrition.
- Opt for roasted and steamed veggies instead of fried.
- Use super-healthy sweet potatoes instead of regular white potatoes.
Other ideas include eating slower – experts say that eating slower and chewing your food more can make you feel more satisfied. Alternatively you could take a break mid-meal to let your digestive system relax. Another great way to cut back is to use a smaller plate so less looks like more. Choose foods that are high in water and/or fiber. These foods will make you feel full faster. You could also offer to take a family walk after the holiday meal.
Here are two healthy recipes for a side-dish that is perfect to take with you to a dinner party or to offer to your guests at your holiday dinner party. Both dishes are super easy to make but look and taste amazing.
Lastly, and most importantly, have fun with your friends and family. Remember that the holiday season is more about sharing time with friends and family rather than overdoing it at meal time. Happy holidays!
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Love all of this, except for one teensy part. It’s not good form to ask a host to alter their menu or preparation. Hosting a party is amazingly stressful without guests making special requests. If you attend a party and see that salad is overdressed for your taste, simply take a smaller portion without drawing attention to yourself.
Thanks for your comment Debra – your point is a good one, never really thought about it that way – I guess growing up people in the family had some allergies so we always knew this person needs a modified this, that person needs a different that. I still think it’s ok to ask politely – or maybe bring your own. I’ve brought my own lately to a few friends and it hasn’t been an issue. It’s been amazing how many people have been supportive when they know you are trying to be healthy, never expected that!