.png)
Ah, the holidays—a time for family, friends, and food… so much food. From the buttery mashed potatoes to Aunt Susan’s famous pecan pie, it can feel like the season is more about feasting than festivity. And before you know it, your “cozy winter sweater” is feeling just a little too snug.
But don’t worry! You can enjoy all the holiday magic without letting your healthy habits hibernate. Let’s dive into some practical, no-nonsense tips to help you navigate the season, avoid unwanted weight gain, and still savor the best of the holidays.
1. Don’t Skip Meals to “Save Room”
We’ve all been there: skipping breakfast or lunch because you know dinner is going to be a calorie bomb. But here’s the thing—this strategy usually backfires. By the time dinner rolls around, you’re ravenous and more likely to overeat (hello, second and third servings).
Pro Tip: Eat balanced meals throughout the day, focusing on protein and fiber, which keep you full longer. That way, you’ll approach the holiday buffet feeling satisfied and in control, not ready to eat the tablecloth.
2. Make a Game Plan for the Buffet
Buffets can feel like a challenge from the food gods: "How many plates can you balance?" Instead of piling everything onto your plate, take a lap around first to scope out your options. Prioritize your absolute favorites (yes, you can have the mac and cheese) and skip the stuff you’re less excited about (goodbye, dry dinner rolls).
Pro Tip: Fill half your plate with veggies and lean protein, then leave some room for a smaller portion of those indulgent holiday staples. Balance is key!
3. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
Sometimes, what feels like hunger is actually thirst—especially when you’re sipping on festive cocktails or eggnog. Staying hydrated can help curb unnecessary snacking and keep your energy levels steady.
Pro Tip: For every alcoholic drink, have a glass of water in between. It’s a sneaky way to stay hydrated and pace yourself so you don’t wake up with a sugar-cookie hangover.
4. Keep Moving (Even If It’s Just a Walk)
Between holiday parties and family gatherings, your usual workout routine might take a hit—but that doesn’t mean you have to be sedentary. Staying active can help balance out those extra holiday calories and boost your mood (especially if Uncle Bob starts debating politics at dinner).
Pro Tip: Go for a walk after big meals, squeeze in a quick home workout, or even join a family-friendly activity like a holiday-themed fun run. Bonus points if you do it in an ugly Christmas sweater.
5. Snack Smarter
The holidays are prime time for grazing—there are bowls of candy, trays of cookies, and cheese platters lurking around every corner. Instead of mindlessly munching, be intentional about your snacks.
Pro Tip: Keep healthy options like nuts, veggies, or Greek yogurt on hand. When indulging in treats, enjoy them mindfully—savor that peppermint bark instead of inhaling it like it’s your job.
6. Watch the Liquid Calories
We need to talk about holiday drinks. Sure, they’re delicious, but they can also pack a surprising calorie punch. A single cup of eggnog can have more calories than a slice of pie—and that’s before the rum.
Pro Tip: Stick to lighter options like sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice, or enjoy smaller servings of the richer drinks. Cheers to moderation!
7. Don’t Let One Meal Derail You
Let’s say you overdo it at dinner (or dessert... or both). It happens! But one indulgent meal isn’t going to undo all your hard work—what matters is how you bounce back.
Pro Tip: Avoid the “all-or-nothing” mindset. Get back to your regular healthy habits at the next meal and move on. No guilt, no spiral, just balance.
8. Get Enough Sleep
Holiday stress, late-night parties, and endless to-do lists can leave you running on empty. But lack of sleep messes with your hunger hormones, making you more likely to overeat.
Pro Tip: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night, even during the holiday hustle. Your body (and mood) will thank you.
9. Set Realistic Expectations
The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not micromanaged. You’re probably going to eat more than usual, and that’s okay. The goal isn’t to be perfect—it’s to find a balance that lets you stay healthy without missing out on the fun.
Pro Tip: Focus on maintaining your weight rather than losing it during the holidays. It’s a much more realistic (and less stressful) goal.
10. Remember the Reason for the Season
At the end of the day, the holidays aren’t just about food—they’re about spending time with loved ones, making memories, and enjoying the season. Shifting your focus away from the buffet table can help you stay present and appreciate what really matters.
The Bottom Line
Avoiding weight gain during the holidays doesn’t mean skipping dessert or saying no to your favorite dishes. It’s about balance, mindfulness, and a little bit of planning. By staying hydrated, keeping active, and savoring your favorite holiday foods in moderation, you can enjoy the season guilt-free—and maybe even keep your sweater fitting just right.
So, go ahead, enjoy that slice of pie—just maybe not the whole thing. Happy holidays!
Download a copy of the free "5 Day Meal Plan" with grocery list included
Comments