Healthy Holidays
In the midst of all of this enjoyment we must remember that of course we can have it, but do we want it? For instance, a range of all the food groups will be readily available at the many informal gatherings and formal social events that we attend, but just because so much can be consumed doesn’t mean we cannot simply choose what we REALLY want to enjoy instead of piling on your plate for no other reason that ‘better belly buss than good food waste.’
The holidays are usually a time defined by family, friends, fun and food!
Simple tips to avoid overeating this holiday season:
Stay hydrated. This has an impact on both food intake and alcohol consumption.
Drinking a glass of room temperature water at least half an hour before a meal ensures that you won’t overeat and aids in digestion. Sometimes when we think we are hungry, we are in fact, just thirsty. With regards to alcohol, for those of us who indulge- it reduces the production of the anti-diuretic hormone that is responsible for reabsorbing water into the body. It is for this reason, we sometimes feel dehydrated when we drink and why it is even more important to keep up our water intake.
Do not attend an event starved as you are more likely to eat until uncomfortably stuffed.
Going to dinner super hungry is possibly the worst thing you can do because you’ll end up eating with your eyes and piling food high unto your plate, then possibly have a difficult time actually finishing everything off. You may even get to a moment where the food is no longer enjoyable and then what’s the point? To avoid this, be sure to have at least a small snack so that your tummy isn’t rumbling while you’re in the buffet line.
Eat slowly and wait at least 20 minutes before going for seconds or between courses.
The main task of food is to nourish you yes, but your meal should also be satisfying and eating, a pleasurable experience. Studies show that the most enjoyable meals are those that are had with little to no distraction and those that are not rushed. In addition, some time should be taken to think about if you are indeed satisfied or if you’d like a little more. This decision is one that should be carefully made to avoid overeating like point 2.
Indulge wisely.
Enjoy protein, especially meats you don’t regularly consume throughout the year. Proteins are very filling and so if it takes up the majority of your plate, the other food groups can be consumed in smaller proportions. I find it fulfilling to include things I may not usually have as that creates excitement around the meal.
Although one cheat meal doesn’t affect your waistline, remember to eat in moderation as you don’t want to undo your hard work and you can’t outtrain imbalanced food choices.
We must remember that there is life after the holidays and life after these food-filled events. There’s no need to feel guilty for food choices made, but it is important to have self control. It is useless to compare yourself to the person behind you in line or the best friend sitting next to you as your choices should be made for you and no one else.
I’m hopeful that these tips help you like they help me. As much as the holidays are a time for fun and food, they are also a time of rest (hopefully) and reflection. To bask in the beauty of simplicity is a blessing and the following recipe provides just that!