The holiday season is officially in full swing, and with it comes the search to find the perfect gifts for your friends and family. In the midst of all the merriment and commotion, don't forget to give yourself the most important gift of all: health! Today I'm sharing my top three tips to stay healthy during the holiday season. Keep reading to find out how you can feel "Merry & Bright" all season long...
Tip #1: Quench your thirst, first! Did you know that our hunger and thirst centers are right next to each other in the brain? Often, our bodies confuse thirst for hunger. To avoid this pitfall, drink plenty of delicious water. I like to make ‘spa’ water for myself and my holiday guests. To make this hydrating drink, fill a water pitcher with fresh lemons, limes, cucumbers and/or cranberries, and serve before and during your meal!
Tip #2. Stay mindful. This is not the time to skip meals then binge! (Nor is there any time that’s appropriate for that). The key to staying healthy is listening to your body. Pause for a moment, take some breaths, and check in. Are you truly hungry? Are you getting full? And are you in tune with your system? Let go of the idea that you ‘have to’ stuff yourself because it's a special event. Indulge, enjoy the food, and then stop when you're satisfied. The leftovers aren’t going anywhere.
Tip #3. Add healthy twists to classic favorites. There are so many delicious recipes that take holiday classics and remake them to taste just as good (if not better) and pack them with way more of the good stuff (like veggies) and less of the not so good stuff (like saturated fat). Step out of routine and remake a recipe you think could use a little health boost – it just may become the new holiday favorite.
Speaking of adding a healthy twists to holiday favorites...I'm excited to share my holiday meal plan! This plan features 5 days of meals and snacks inspired by your holiday favorites. Click here to learn more about it.
