The holiday season is a time for celebrating with family and friends over food and drinks. With a little thought and planning, you can still enjoy all the holidays have to offer with good nutrition and physical activity in mind!
Simple Healthy Holiday Tips
- Eat regular meals. Skipping breakfast or lunch may cause you to overeat. Don't arrive on an empty stomach.
- Focus on fun, not food. Plan fun family activities and events that takes the focus off of food.
- Make fruits and vegetables the stars. Remember to fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables.
- Bring a healthy dish to holiday gatherings.
- Choose small portions. Choosing small portions allows you to control your calorie intake yet enjoy many different dishes offered.
- Sip smart. Choose water and unsweetened drinks like tea instead of sugary drinks such as eggnog or hot chocolate.
- Find healthy distractions. Talk to people during holiday parties, sit or stand away from the buffet table.
- Choose indulgences wisely. Choose foods that are unique and special to the season.
Simple Recipe Swaps
- Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of butter and cream when making mashed potatoes.
- Substitute applesauce, mashed bananas or canned pumpkin for oil, margarine or butter in muffins, brownies or quick breads.
- Use whole-wheat flour as a substitute for white flour when baking.
- Use herbs or spices to give foods flavor instead of salt and sugar.
- Sprinkle salads with chopped nuts instead of croutons.
- Try low-fat plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and low-fat cream cheese in place of regular cream cheese.
Get Moving
- Go for a walk to look at holiday lights rather than driving.
- Take the stairs whenever possible.
- Try a new winter activity such as ice skating, snowshoeing or skiing.
- Make physical activity a family tradition by going for a walk after your holiday meal.
- Play in the snow or sand.
Happy holidays and a healthy New Year from the entire team at Learning ZoneXpress!