The holidays are a great time of the year. No work, no school, you can sleep in until noon, and not to mention, the upcoming Christmas and Thanksgiving holidays! If you’re like any other foodie out there, you’re probably craving the eggnog, turkey and pudding already, but before you dive in head first into the holiday feast, remember to go easy on your body with a holiday diet.

This holiday season, choose health over taste!

Limit Alcohol Consumption

It’s fun to get together with friends and family after a long time to celebrate the festivities over some drinks – but don’t forget the hangover that’s waiting for you the morning after.

This holiday season, try saying no to alcohol. There are many more beverages you can enjoy at Christmas and Thanksgiving that don’t pack a wallop of calories and don’t give you a painful hangover the next day!

Consider Serving Healthy Holiday Diet Alternatives

Thanksgiving and Christmas aren’t the same without the decadent feast – but it’s really not worth it if you’re watching your weight, cholesterol or diabetes. Sure, the scalloped potatoes look good but alternatives like baked potatoes can taste equally great.

Try eschewing the turkey leg and skin for white meat, and choose a savory sauce instead of the rich and sweet cranberry one – you’ll thank yourself later!

Don’t Stuff Yourself

We know you’ve been waiting a year to dive into your aunt’s green bean casserole and candied yams, but you haven’t been working out all year to negate the effort with ten days of loaded calories.

Practice portion control when you’re at the buffet. Choose greens and other low calorie foods instead of loading up on carbs, especially if you’re diabetic and need to be vigilant about your hypertension, too.

Speak to a Nutritionist Before The Holidays

It’s also a good idea to speak to your doctor or a licensed nutritionist before the holidays to figure out what you can eat and how you can manage your holiday diet.

Especially if you’re on a restricted diet where you have to watch out for certain nutrients and ingredients, it’s wise to get some options and ideas about variations you can eat during the holidays.

Make Time For Exercise

Let’s face it – holidays are time for indulging, despite portion control and other ways of curbing extra calories. So, it’s important to make time for exercise despite how stuffed you may be.

Plan a walk with your favorite cousin or take a quick run around the block. It’s essential to burn what you eat, especially if you’re looking to balance your indulgence and health.

As always, remember that the holidays are all about being together with the special people in your life. Food just supplements the fun and isn’t a major contributor to it. So this holiday season, choose healthy meals to make and serve or prepare some healthy alternatives for your health conscious guests!

Happy holidays and bon appétit! Contact Advanced Family for help in managing your holiday diet.