How to Maintain Healthy Food Habits During The Holidays
Healthy habits often take a backseat during the holidays. Busy schedules full of food prep, parties and shopping can be stressful and lead to poor choices while on the run. IBJI is here to help you reclaim your healthy eating habits.
When it comes to improving your diet, there is no right or wrong way to do it. If you are trying to maintain healthy habits this holiday season it is important to stay hydrated with water, never go to a party hungry, always designate half of your plate for vegetables, and exercise first thing in the morning. Additionally, IBJI Dietitians stress to always maintain your healthy habits no matter what the day has in store and where you may find yourself. Be present, enjoy your company, savor the foods you are eating and have fun.
Myths about healthy eating and fad diets revolve all around us, especially around this time of year. These myths can both confuse and hold us back from accomplishing desired results. Fad diets are just that…fads yielding temporary results if any at all. After working in this field for over a decade, the most sustainable results come from lifelong changes. Focusing on healthy habits one day at a time and maintaining that will yield permanent results both physically and physiologically.
Instead of following what is trending, strive to build your diet around consistency, portion control and mindful eating. By using the plate method (pictured below), the portions will guide you in building a filling and nutritious meal.
If you plan to cook or bring a dish to a holiday party, we recommend trying a tapas-style board. On a tray arrange fresh fruits, vegetables, jams, dips, cheese and whole-grain crackers. Not only is this delicious, healthy, and party friendly, but it is something you can do in five minutes right before your guests arrive [with] easy cleanup!
The key to maintaining a healthy diet is to incorporate mindful habits that will last you beyond the holiday season. Think less about avoiding and more about moderation and portion control. Fill up on clean high fiber options and sample traditional holiday staples you love. It is all about keeping a healthy balance without feeling deprived.
There’s a lot to keep track of during the holidays, including your health. If you need additional advice from a dietitian or health coach, our OrthoHealth team is always here to help.
