With Thanksgiving coming up and the holiday season just around the corner, your calendar is probably starting to fill up with exciting events and get-togethers. Office parties, formal dinners, and family gatherings may help you feel cheerful and merry, but they may also take a toll on your health. According to the Western CT Health Network, most people gain about a pound during the holiday season and this pound tends to stay long past New Year’s Day.
Eating healthy around the holidays is definitely a challenge. Those homemade pies and tasty holiday treats are very tempting and can throw off the diet of any disciplined eater. Here are a few tips from Next Avenue that will help you navigate holiday eating and avoid putting on a few extra pounds.
- Eat before attending your holiday party or dinner– Enjoy a fiber and nutrient dense meal or snack before you celebrate to reduce cravings and avoid temptations.
- Reduce your alcohol consumption– It is fine to sip on a glass of red wine or some bubbly champagne to toast the holidays. But, try to limit your alcohol consumption as alcoholic drinks can contain 80 to 500+ calories per serving.
- Remember to exercise– It may be hard to get a good workout in during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. It is important that you stick with your exercise routine and try to burn off those extra calories.
- Eat your vegetables– You can greatly reduce the number of calories you consume by opting for the vegetable side or a fresh salad. By filling up on vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, you will be less likely to grab at the dessert tray at the end of the night.
For even more advice on how to eat healthy this holiday season, check out the article “How to Keep Off Extra Pounds During the Holidays” on Next Avenue’s website.
Next Avenue is public media’s first and only national journalism service for America’s booming older population. Their daily content delivers vital ideas, context and perspectives on issues that matter most as we age.
Happy Thanksgiving from Age Well CT!
