7 great tips to help you NOT overindulge over the holidays (for EVERYONE!)
It’s that time of year again Toronto! When extra calories lurk around every corner, from frosted cookies at the office to eggnog at your neighbor’s get-together, jelly doughnuts for Hanukkah or chocolates in your stocking.
So, how are you expected to stay healthy or even to maintain your weight? Here are some tricks that Toronto-based Nutrition Practitioner Ilona Gorelik guarantees will help you stay on track.
1. Never Arrive Hungry – Don’t go to a party when you’re starving! Grab a quick, nutritious snack beforehand. If you do arrive hungry, drink some water to fill up before filling your plate. (squeeze a lemon in there for a small cleanse).
2. Stick to your routine as much as possible. If you typically start the day with a smoothie and end it with a jog, keep it up! Avoid the temptation to stop exercising or paying attention to your normal food routine because “It’s the holidays, I can eat whatever!”
3. Portion Control – Enjoy the holiday food, but with mindfulness. Meaning, when you choose to have that sugar cookie – Eat it slowly, savoring every bite and keep your portions in check.
4. Be conscious of alcohol intake – Mulled wine, spiked eggnog and Irish coffee can seem like the perfect addition to your holiday season, but proceed with caution. There are lower calorie drinks AND drinking water in between cocktails can decrease calorie intake, keep you hydrated and mindful. Alcohol also reduces will power and increases appetite!
5. Maintain a regular eating schedule – Don’t skip meals throughout the day, as this will cause you to binge later, or even late-night snack. Keep yourself feeling satisfied and healthy throughout the day.
6. Pay attention to your true hunger signal – Ask yourself am I actually hungry, bored or simply thirsty? Chew food slowly, wait 10 minutes after you finish your plate and pay attention to how you really feel.
7. Walk it off – divide your lunch break and squeeze in a 15 minute walk outside around your office.
These tips have worked for me, my friends and clients for years. Just remember, stay healthy, love who you are right now, and have a great holiday season.
