The holidays can be bittersweet…we want to look stunning while at the same time eating our way through the endless parties with overflowing portions of indulging foods. This is one of the topics I get asked about constantly during the holidays. Because of the popularity of the topic, I desired to write a book with all the tips I so often give. So here are my top tips inspired by my latest book The Little Book of Simple Eating:
- Instead of depriving yourself of a yummy treat (such as my delicious flan), share it with your favorite people and savor each bite slowly. Eating slowly means chewing each bite at least 15 times.
- Want to learn to eat slow? Rest your eating utensils between each bite. Close your eyes and savor every bite. Eating your favorite food should be enjoyable and not a guilty pleasure.
- Learn to feel when you are getting full, this will help you to slow down or stop eating. Three quarters full means you have reached your limit.
- Want to stay full through the day? Incorporate your daily dose of fiber! Grains such as quinoa, oatmeal, sorghum, or wheat, (to name a few), add several essential nutrients, flavors and crunch. Adding fiber can be as easy as getting cozy with a bowl of high-fiber cereal topped with fruit or chopped nuts.
- Take advantage of seasonal produce and get creative with the preparation. Try a grilled cheese with brie cheese, sliced pears, and balsamic vinaigrette served with a small cup of pumpkin soup. This meal not only sounds amazing but is loaded with holiday flavors and nutrients.
- Serve from the kitchen to keep seconds out of sight. Serving from your pots and pans on the table only encourages over eating even after we are completely full. Keep your delicious food in the table and allow people to serve themselves from the kitchen.
- If you are at a party with a table full of your favorite food, get a small plate and choose mini portions of your favorites and go mingle with the people far from the table. Or you may stand with your back to the food. Out of sight, out of mind
- Off to a holiday party? Try eating a small snack such as peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or an avocado toast with a flat egg on top. The protein will keep you full until the party and beyond.
- Size matters! Make an effort to reduce portion sizes, not eliminate foods. You can save hundreds of calories by simply switching to a smaller plate. Remember that the poison is in the portion.
- Keep moving through the Holidays. Walking, biking, jumping rope, walking with a two pound weights, or a fun Zumba class will keep your spirits up while burning the extra calories you may have eaten last night.
- Practice mindful eating, as it can help you take control of your cravings. Every bite counts so be consious of your food and beverage choices. We are not looking for perfection, but simply moderation so you can feel really good after eating.
- Limit or alternate high-calorie beverages with water or infused waters, which make for a fun low-calorie beverage. I love infusing water with cucumbers, chopped fruits, and fresh mint or basil. These infusions add lots of flavor without the extra calories, while helping you get your water/liquid recommendations = 13 cups per day!
- Food matters! Your body needs the nutrients foods provide. Try not to skip meals, instead incorporate at least three food groups into each meal. Nutrients are more efficient when they work in teams. And remember, If you skip meals, you will probably end up eating more calories at the end of the day.
- This is the season for sharing. Go ahead and share your warm cookies with your neighboors or family members. These small tender gestures with solidify friendships and family bonds forever.
- Variety, moderation, and small changes in your diet are key to a balanced and successful healthy lifestyle not only during the holidays, but for the long term. These tips will come in handy every time you are at a celebration or simply eating your daily meals.
Have you had enough cookies yet? Here is a Guide to Balance all the festive Treats
