Here’s 5 tips on overeating during the holiday season you may find helpful.
Moderation
We all know how the saying goes – enjoy everything in moderation, but that seems to get tossed out during the holidays especially when it comes to food. Don’t try to deprive yourself during the holidays, it most likely won’t go over well. Having an extra holiday treat here and there won’t kill you. That’s what holidays are for! You’re allowed to indulge a bit, just keep portions small when it comes to holiday desserts and make sure you limit how often you eat them. Pace yourself. Going the whole season without any treats is cruel and will most likely end in binging later, so have your guilty pleasures, just keep them in moderation.
Watch the alcohol
The holidays are a time for celebration, which most likely means more alcohol. Not only does alcohol add on empty calories, but can also lead you to eating more while drinking. If you are at a gathering, limit yourself to one or two drinks to cut down on the unhealthy cravings you might be feeling afterward.
Focus on the protein and veggies.
Protein-packed foods are a great way to fill up without adding a lot of sugar and empty carbohydrates. Pack your plate with low-fat meats like turkey and chicken. If you’re vegetarian, eat more of the tofu than the side dishes that are most likely to be sugar and carbohydrate heavy. Also, fresh veggies come packed with lots of good nutrients that can keep the cravings down. Fresh veggies are nutrient-dense food instead of calorie-dense meaning lots of nourishment but not lots of weight-gaining potential.
Fill up on the water or herbal teas minus the sugar
Don’t forget about water and natural herbal teas! The holidays are an easy time to drink more sugary beverages than normal. Substitute drinks for water, and drink a lot of it. Not only is water essential for your health, but drinking a glass before a meal can fill you up more as well, preventing you from overeating. You can change it up with some natural herbal teas or a squeeze of lemon.
Take your time
Eating too fast is one of the easiest ways to overeat. When you don’t give your body the chance to digest food and feel full before you stop eating, chances are you’re going to end up eating more than you want. Eat slowly and enjoy each bite to give your body a chance to catch up. This way, you’ll end up getting full faster and eat less.
Most of all don’t forget to enjoy the holidays and the delicious food that comes with it, don’t be afraid to indulge a little! And always give thanks to those who fill our tummies up with all that delicious yummy goodness!
— Bonus Tip!
As I write this I am reminded of all the digestive trouble my patients complain about during the holiday season. Ever notice as we get older our digestive system doesn’t work as well. I have 2 or 3 special herbal formulas and supplements that will ease the bloating and nausea and make the holidays more enjoyable. I take them myself and they work! Please call if you have questions and I’d be glad to help. Happy Holidays!
