Big family meals, a constant rotation of sweets, unhealthy snacks at parties… the holidays can prove a difficult time of year to maintain your healthy eating habits. You’re not alone in the struggle – plenty of people struggle to stick to diets and healthy eating goals during this time of year. The question is, how do you combat it? 

 

Here are three tips for sticking to healthy eating during the holidays: 

Plan Ahead

Plan ahead whenever you can to minimize the chance of cheating on your diet or overindulging in an unhealthy choice. Bring a healthy appetizer or meal to share if you’re heading to a holiday party. Knowing you have that option can be a great help. If you’re traveling during the holidays, bring healthy fiber-heavy snacks along to help you feel full with minimal intake. Nuts, protein bars, and jerky are all great options.  

Keep Treats Out of Sight

If you have unhealthy snacks or treats in your home, you don’t have to throw them away – try putting them in a cabinet where you can’t see them. The “out of sight, out of mind” method works for many people to curb cravings. Of course, you can’t always avoid unhealthy foods, especially during events like the workplace holiday party or a big family meal. In these instances, do your best to avoid the unhealthy choices if you can, or bring along a healthy option for yourself to give yourself an outlet.  

Stay Active

Remember: Eating well is only half the battle when it comes to healthy living. Maintaining an active lifestyle and exercising regularly is also very important, and that’s all the more true during the holiday months. Keep up with your exercise routine – it will make you feel your absolute best during a tough time, and it can help offset some extra calories if you do decide to indulge a little in a less-than-healthy snack or meal.  

This Holiday Season, Feel Good About What You’re Eating

Use the tips above to maintain your healthy eating habits as we move through the holidays. And keep in mind that a little indulging here and there isn’t the end of the world – the important thing is that you don’t make it a routine. Focus on spending quality time with your loved ones and get ready to be laser-focused on your healthy habits in the New Year.