4 Ways to Stay On Track During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us! Sugar and alcohol are available (and encouraged) every direction you turn, holiday events fill every weekend, and let’s face it–you’d rather spread good cheer than stick to a diet. I don’t blame you! It’s hard to enjoy any life event when we feel restricted and tense. While I’m all for leveling up our food and drink choices and keeping sugar to a minimum, I also know the value of engaging in holiday traditions and celebrating with loved ones.
So, this year, instead of pulling back and restricting, what if you tried a different approach to the holidays? What if you focused on what to include on every plate, instead of what to exclude? What if you focused on adding the good stuff instead of saying no to every treat or indulgence? I guarantee you’ll feel more proud, more balanced, and be on a better track to maintain or achieve your health goals come January first. Scrap resolutions and say yes to sustainable habits. Check your plate for these four things at every meal or holiday party.
Protein. It’s my favorite macronutrient because it helps balance blood sugar and keeps you full the longest. At the cocktail party, have some salami or prosciutto before crackers or cookies. At every meal, be sure to include a fist-sized portion of meat, fish, or plant-based protein. Start the day with a protein-filled breakfast to stay balanced all day long.
Fat. Don’t be afraid of it! Include olive oil, butter, avocado, coconut, nuts or nut butter with every meal or snack. Fat also works to keep you full, blunt any blood sugar spikes, and make any dish taste delicious. (I’m a heavy cream in my coffee kind of girl).
Fiber. It promotes motility, feeds good bugs in your gut, and (surprise, surprise!) supports blood sugar control. Try adding avocado, flax seeds, chia seeds, brussel sprouts, lentils, or cauliflower to your day to boost your intake.
Veggies. I probably don’t need to tell you why you need them, but challenge yourself to have at least one at every meal. I try to count my “plant points” each day to boost my variety, because the more the better, but a little bit goes a long way.
When these four things make it onto your plate throughout the day, you can relax about the piece of pie you ate or the glass (or two) of wine you had with dinner. Add, rather than remove. The more, (protein, fat, fiber & veggies) the merrier
Happy Holidays!
XO
Kara
