Healthy Holiday Eating

“One of the biggest risks to any financial plan is an unexpected or prolonged health care event in one’s own life or in your family.”

I have said some version of that sentence too many times to count when helping clients plan their financial future. I finally came to the realization that I needed to address this issue and help clients better protect not only their financial health but their physical health. To that end, I collaborate with Heidi Roth, an experienced dietitian and health coach, to provide guidance and consultation to my clients.

Heidi was kind enough to provide some health tips for the holidays. I hope you find it helpful.

1.    Be realistic – now is not the time to try and lose weight!  A good goal is to avoid gaining any extra weight during the holiday season.

2.    Be picky. Survey the buffet, and decide what you REALLY want. Remember that the more variety you are presented with, the more you will eat. Start by filling up half your plate with vegetables.

3.    Would there be a healthier alternative that you would be just as happy with? For example, would pumpkin pie be just as appealing as the triple caramel toffee pie?

4.    Use portion control. The triple caramel toffee pie sounds more appealing? Have a small piece and slowly enjoy it.  The first couple bites always taste the best and can be enough to satisfy.

5.    Remember, just because you went overboard, all is not lost. Just return to your healthy eating habits the next day. A green smoothie in the morning is a great way to get back on track!

6.    Take the focus of off food. Why not start some new holiday traditions? How about a “Turkey Run” 5K in the morning? A walk between dinner and dessert to check out the holiday lights is also a great way to get some fresh air and a little bit of activity.

7.    Take time for exercise and stress management.  The holidays can be a very stressful time, leading to “stress-eating.”  Remember that exercise is one of the very best ways to manage stress, in addition to its many other benefits.

8.    Offer to bring a healthy dish to the gathering. That way, you know there will be at least one healthy thing there!

9.    Pay attention!  Enjoy your favorite holiday foods, MINDFULLY.   Savor the smell, texture and taste of every delicious bite!

Heidi Roth, RD, LDN