The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it's also a time when people tend to indulge in unhealthy eating habits and neglect their fitness routines. In this article, we'll share 10 tips for staying healthy during the holidays, so you can enjoy all the festivities without compromising your health.
1. Plan Ahead for Meals
Before heading to holiday parties or family gatherings, plan ahead for healthy meal options. If you're bringing a dish, take something healthy and homemade instead of processed snacks or desserts. If you're enjoying a potluck-style dinner, fill up your plate with fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
2. Stay Active
Don't let the holiday season be an excuse for neglecting your fitness routine. Make sure to remain active by incorporating physical activities into your holiday schedule. Take a walk after meals or plan outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding or skating with friends and family.
3. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Limiting alcohol intake during the festive season can have a myriad of health benefits ranging from fewer calories intake to clearer, more precise judgement. The best way to do so is to alternate alcoholic drinks with water or other beverages, to better enjoy the flavors.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water is essential for optimal health throughout the year, but more so during the holidays. Drinking water helps to control hunger cues, aid digestion, and re-hydrates the body during travel or indulging in rich dishes.
5. Get Enough Sleep
With all the excitement going on during the holidays, it's still advisable to get adequate sleep of 7-9 hours daily. This ensures that during the busy days, you are fully energized and feeling positive.
6. Choose Healthy Snacks
snack is an inevitable aspect of the festival season, choose healthier snack options such as nuts, roasted chickpeas, raw vegetables or fruits that are satisfying while high in vitamins and fiber.
7. Practice Mindful Eating
In order to avoid overeating or unhealthy consumption, practice mindful eating. Slowly enjoy the flavors of the food and be conscious of what you are eating, by doing so it will be easy to tell when you are full and should stop eating.
8. Stay Away from the Snack Table
Position yourself away from the snack table when you are at social events. Out of sight, out of mind is a useful technique when it comes to keeping temptation away, so ensure that the snack table is kept out of your view as much as possible.
9. Keep Your Stress Levels in Check
The holidays can be a time of stress, so it's important to focus on your mental wellbeing. Take time to relax and engage in activities that help in reducing your stress. Prioritize time for yourself, and practice self-care activities like meditation and yoga.
10. Don't Skip Meals
It is a misconception that skipping meals will make up for overeating later. Eating regular meals keeps your metabolism active, stabilizes glucose levels, and prevents overwhelming hunger that can lead to overconsumption.
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