A Nutritionist’s 3 Smart Tips to Eat Healthy During the Festive Season

 A Certified Nutritionist Shares 3 Strategies For Assisting You In Upholding Healthy Eating Practices Throughout The Festive Season: How To Steer Clear Of Overindulgence,

The festive season marks a period of festivities, mouthwatering dishes, and hectic agendas—but all this can create challenges in maintaining healthy routines. This time of year often leads to an all-or-nothing attitude that can leave you feeling lethargic, puffy, or disheartened by weight gain when the new year begins. Fortunately, adhering to a healthy path doesn’t necessitate foregoing your beloved treats or fixating on calorie counts.

1. Never Skip Meals

While it may seem appealing to "bank" calories by forgoing meals prior to a holiday feast, Martin asserts that this strategy frequently backfires. "She explains, "It is tempting to skip meals to build up calories for big holiday banquets, but this behavior typically results in overeating later." Restrictive dieting might also negatively affect your wellbeing.

 

Instead, she advises maintaining regular eating patterns throughout the day to enhance appetite regulation and make wiser choices. "Launch your day with a fiber-and-protein-packed breakfast like a hearty bowl of oatmeal and relish balanced meals and snacks all day long," Martin suggests, pointing out that this can help you feel more content and decrease the likelihood of overindulging when faced with the holiday spread.

2. Select Whole Grains

With carbohydrates abundant during the holidays, whole grains might appear optional—but Martin insists they’re actually a savvy choice. "Given the abundance of carbohydrates at holiday get-togethers, this may sound rather counterintuitive, but listen attentively," she says.

Holiday meals can benefit greatly from the addition of whole grains like quinoa and farro.. Martin explains that they "not only serve as a wonderful foundation for various holiday sides, but they are also loaded with fiber and even some protein, helping to satisfy you and deliver enduring energy." That energy lift can be particularly advantageous during lengthy days filled with tasks, celebrations, and travel!

3. Populate Half Your Plate with Vegetables

It’s easy to overindulge in casseroles and rich sides, but Martin recommends starting with vegetables to naturally balance portions. ""Fill half of your plate with veggies at Christmas gatherings, starting with the less rich and creamy options." 

This tactic aids in saturating yourself with fiber-rich fare before indulging in more decadent choices. Martin claims that it "will help you keep portions of the less nutritious selections in check and assure you load up on more gratifying fiber."

Don’t Forget to Savor Your Favorites

Most importantly, Martin underscores that health transcends mere nutrients and numbers. "Food represents more than just fuel and calories, especially during this season," she reminds us. Do not deny yourself your favorites,

By prioritizing consistency, balance, and enjoyment, you can nurture your health through the holidays—without guilt, limitations, or missing out on your cherished dishes.