Stay Healthy during the Holidays

When it comes to the Holiday season (Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas) it becomes food heaven! So many wonderful seasonal flavors like pumpkin & gingerbread! But with that comes the possibility of packing on a few pounds. So how can we enjoy these things without gaining body fat? Well, there are many things you can do.

Here are some tips to stay healthy during the holidays:

• Enjoy some treats, but keep the portion size small So I may allow myself to some halloween candy. But instead of grabbing the large candy bar, I’ll grab a bite size one instead and really, really savor it as long as possible!
• Try sharing the desserts and slices of pie with a friend Hosts tend to cut such large pieces of pumpkin pie! But honestly, all I want is the portion nearest the crust. So maybe this year, I’ll make boyfriend eat the bottom half of it.
• Continue your regular workout routine (don’t let the food make you tired and lazy) For me personally, this means I absolutely MUST get up and workout in the morning. Because after I eat a comfort meal like Thanksgiving mashed potatoes and turkey….I go into a food coma. So set your alarm and get your workout done in the morning!
• Consider adding in some extra HIIT cardio on days you plan to eat a little extra Did you know that after you finish your HIIT, your metabolism is on speedy mode the rest of the day?! So it would be beneficial to do some HIIT the morning before a big Holiday meal. That way you burn up more calories than you would have if you just ran 3 miles at a steady pace. HIIT is the way to go!
• Drink plenty of water, especially leading up to your holiday meal Drinking water will not only hydrate you, but it will also make you feel fuller. So hopefully you will stop eating earlier, before you go up for seconds or thirds!
• Pop a mint or gum in after your meal to prevent you from wanting to munch on some more snacks You know how you never want to eat something RIGHT after you brush your teeth. Well same effect! Chew on something minty and you will have less desire to indulge more.
• When you are going to a potluck, bring a healthy option so you know you’ll have something you can eat more of So for example, I may bring a tray of veggies and hummus. That way if all the other food is delicious (but “bad” for your daily macro count) then you always have an option to resort to.
• Take it easy on the cocktails. Consider low calorie options. My favorite is a vodka water with some Crystal Light mixed in!