Thanksgiving starts the holiday “eating” season for most of us. Undoubtedly, our meals are an important part of our traditions and celebrations. It is possible to stay on track with your health goals and eating habits during the holiday season.
Here are a few tips to help you:
Plan – think about how you can select lower calorie and carbohydrate foods to meet your nutrition goals. Bring a healthy dish to holiday parties. Use online apps, menus and nutrition information to plan what you will eat when dining at a restaurant.
Don’t skip meals– This may affect blood sugar control.
Stay hydrated– Research shows that if you drink water you will eat fewer calories.
Eat slowly– It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to get the message that you are getting full. Put your fork down between bites and chew food well.
Limit portions–Obviously, the amount you eat affects your blood sugar. Think “sliver of pie” instead of “slice of pie”.
Use the plate method to eat healthy– Half of your plate should be low-calorie and carbohydrate vegetables, one-fourth of your plate should be lean protein and the last fourth should contain high carbohydrate vegetables or starchy foods like grains and pasta.
Eat your favorites– Choose dishes you can’t get at other times of the year. Eat lesser amounts of those with carbohydrates so you can try several favorites. Save a small piece of dessert to have later as your snack.
Be active– Take a walk after a holiday meal, dance or play an active game with children.
Source: CDC.gov5 Healthy Eating Tips for the Holidays Healthy
