The holiday season is in full swing. I am sure many of you have been enjoying a few parties, family dinners, and social events already, I know I have.  My favourite part of the holidays is listening to Christmas music, baking, spending time with family and of course enjoying good food. Over the next two weeks, I know we will be spending alot of time enjoying good food and company. Let’s take a look at 5 tips to a healthy and guilt free holiday season.

Be Choosy:

When it comes to indulging I have learned to only eat something that I truly enjoy. Eat slowly and enjoy every bite. I am sure many of you have heard about mindfullness.  Instead of eating something just becuase its there try to pass on foods that are not your favourite and go for a fresh piece of fruit. If your looking for tips on how to teach kids mindfullness and moderation during the holidays check out pediatric dietitian, Sarah Remmers 5 tips.

Veg out:

Fill your plate with vegetables and fruit first. By the time you are ready for those tempting sweets you will hopefully be full and won’t be tempted to overeat sweets. Offer to bring a salad to a potluck, I have been making this salad and  these dark chocolate mandarin oranges with hemp hearts are a healtheir sweet treat.  Another tip is to have extra vegetables at lunch or have small snack such as hummus and veggies before you leave.

How does it make you feel?

Try to ask yourself how you’ll feel if you eat a certain food. I know if I over indulge in sweet foods  I will feel sluggish and moody, trust me you don’t want to see my grumpy side. When I am at a party I try to chose foods that I enjoy and know my body will tolerate, trust me when I say no one wants to be around me the next day and I don’t want to be that person either. Being in tune with your body and knowing how it responds to certain foods will help you make better choices.

Move it:

Continue your regular exercise regime during the holidays. Even if all you can do is get in a fifteen minute run or walk its better than eating and you’ll feel better about yourself. Exercise makes us feel good by releasing endorphins. Fun family winter exercise activities include downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, a nice brisk run and/or a little sledding.

Let it Go!

So you over indulged. That’s totally ok. Tomorrow is a new day and 2019 is right around the corner. Come Januray 1 there will be a ton of motivation all over social media to help you get back on track.

Food is a huge part of the holiday season. Embrace the holiday season and enjoy. Never feel guilty about a little indulgence, ever , especially if you follow health tips 1-4. A little indulgence here and there over the holidays is not going to harm you. Enjoy it, wake up the next morning, eat a healthy breakfast and get moving.

There you go, 5 simple and practical health tips to help you survive the holidays. Now go drink that eggnog and almond bark.

Happy Holidays Friends!