Mindful Holiday Eating: Tips & Tricks To Enjoy The Holiday Season Without Unwanted Feelings of Guilt

Enjoy the holidays while staying on track with a few handy tips and tricks.

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The holiday season is a joyful time of the year, it's full of festivities, celebrations with loved ones, and lots of delicious food. Being able to indulge in good food and some extra treats is a given during the season, but it's also important to maintain a balanced approach to eating that supports your overall health. You shouldn't fear certain foods, all food can be enjoyed in moderation, especially during this time of year.

Let's discuss some ways you can navigate the holiday season with confidence:

• Plan Food For Gatherings: If you are hosting a social gathering for the holidays, consider having a variety of foods that include nutrient-dense options. A great idea is to make a healthy grazing board that features lean meats, veggie sticks, homemade dips, DIY trail mix, homemade bliss balls, etc. If you are attending a gathering, you could consider bringing a healthy dish for everyone to enjoy. You may end up inspiring others to make healthier choices as well.

  
  

• Practice Mindful Eating: It can be easy to get carried away with the festive season and overindulge in all the amazing food on offer. It's important to try and practice mindful eating. This includes slowing down when eating and listening to your body's hunger and fullness cues. This will help you feel more satisfied with smaller portions and not eat past the point of feeling full.

  
  

• Be Conscious of Food Choices When Filling Your Plate: When creating a plate of food for yourself at a social gathering, aim for half a plate of veggies (the more colourful the better), a quarter of protein, and a quarter of whole grains or starches. This helps to ensure you get a variety of essential nutrients in while still enjoying all the fun foods.

  
  

• Avoid Skipping Meals: Skipping meals in anticipation of a big feast can lead to overeating. For example, you can still enjoy a healthy breakfast and lunch before heading to a holiday dinner. You may opt to have a slightly smaller breakfast and lunch, but don't feel like you have to skip them entirely. This will help keep your energy levels steady throughout the day and keep cravings at bay.

  
  

• Focus On Connection During The Holidays, Not Just Food: Try to keep in mind that food will always be there, you don't have to go overboard just because it is the holidays. Focus on making meaningful connections with loved ones, having proper conversations, and just enjoying each other's company. Celebrating the holidays doesn't need to only revolve around food. Shifting your focus from food to enjoying the entire experience can help you avoid overeating.

  
  

• Enjoy Treats Mindfully and in Moderation: Indugligng in a few extra treats are one of the best parts of the holidays. Be mindful to not go overboard, try to choose your favourites and enjoy them in moderation. You want to satisfy your cravings without feeling guilty afterwards for going over the top.

  
  

• Don't Forget to Keep Hydrated: Make sure you drink plenty of water, especially if you are drinking alcohol. Try to alternate every alcoholic drink with a cup of water. It can be easy to get carried away in the festivities but try to limit your alcohol intake as much as possible. Drinking enough water throughout the day will also help you manage any hunger and keep you feeling good.

  
  

• Be Kind to Yourself: If you do end up overindulging during the holidays, it isn't the end of the world. Don't beat yourself up about it, instead acknowledge it has happened, and try to get back on track. Good nutrition is all about balance, one day won't derail all your progress.

Hopefully, these tips and tricks will help you to prepare for any upcoming festivities with confidence. You can indulge in the holiday season while still prioritising your health by being mindful of your choices wherever possible. Try to enjoy every moment of the holidays, because it goes by in the blink of an eye.