Get the Skinny on Healthy Holiday Eating

December 3, 2021 | Posted in Bank Blogs

Eat, drink, and be merry. It's what so many of us do during the holiday season. Unfortunately, many of us suffer a consequence of doing so — weight gain. Even the healthiest and most disciplined of people can find themselves eating unhealthy foods and putting on a few extra pounds during the holiday season. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to ensure that doesn't happen to you.

• Eat your veggies. There are certain vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, and broccoli that are loaded with fiber, which can fill you up. Instead of opting for chips and dip at parties, choose to snack on these filling and healthy treats.
• Avoid heavy dressings and gravy. Foods like turkey and roast beef are not unhealthy provided you don't douse them with fattening dressings or gravy.
• Control your portions. Eating delicious seasonal treats is a big part of the holiday season. You don't have to deprive yourself from eating those treats, provided you limit your intake.
• Step up your exercise game. It's important to exercise throughout the year, but you may want to step up your game during the holiday season. Exercise is also a great way to reduce stress and stress eating, which can lead to weight gain.
• Moderate your alcohol intake. With so many holiday parties, you may find yourself with more opportunities to drink. Alcohol can be high in calories and lead to overeating. Try to choose lower calorie drinks and to keep track of the calories. If you have more than one drink, have a glass of water in between.
• Bring a healthy dish. Ask your host if you can bring a healthy dish, such as a salad or fruit bowl.
• Plan your eating. If you know you're going to have a big holiday feast, eat lighter the day before and after. However, you shouldn't attend a holiday party when you're hungry. You'll end up eating more.

By heeding this advice, you will be able to eat and drink without guilt during the holiday season. And you'll be merrier when you step on the scale after the holidays and see that you're in good shape.