The holiday season is here with tempting treats and festive dinners. It makes it hard to stick to a strict healthy diet. Fortunately, you can discover the secrets to staying healthy through the holidays without sacrificing your health or spirits. Below are some practical tips to help you during this joyous time.
First, let’s talk about food. With smart choices, you can enjoy the celebrations without hindering your health. The holiday table is often filled with delicious-looking food. However, most, if not all, have ingredients you should avoid. Instead of eating things you shouldn’t or avoiding the festivities altogether make a plan before you go.
Don’t show up without knowing what they are serving. If possible let the host/hostess know of your diet restrictions and ask if you can bring something. You don’t need to let them know it’s gluten-free, people get turned off by that.
Navigating Festive Feasts
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Now, when it comes to what to avoid at Christmas parties – it’s just about everything! Look for fruit trays and salads. Although, holiday salads often have ingredients such as cheese and candied nuts. Make sure the salads don’t already have dressing on them. Instead of having salad dressing use lemon wedges for freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Foods to avoid:
- Dairy
- Gluten
- Refined sugar
- Artificial flavors and sweeteners
- Natural flavors
- Corn (it’s mostly a GMO)
- Soy (it’s mostly a GMO)
- MSG (harms the brain and central nervous system)
- Nutritional yeast (it’s has MSG in it)
- Canola oil (it’s mostly a GMO)
- Pork (it’s high in fat and prone to parasites)
- Farmed fish (it’s washed in toxic chemicals due to parasites)
- Processed citric acid (it’s mostly derived from corn)
- Peanuts (a common allergen)
- Eggs – Both Dr. McDougall and Dr. Wahls advise against consuming eggs, a common allergen.
The foods below are healthy but they don’t help the body detox. It’s best to avoid or rarely eat these to help your body heal quicker. You can add these back after your body has healed.
Foods to avoid temporarily:
- Beans
- Chickpeas
- Lentils
- Gluten-free grains like mullet and quinoa
Bring Homemade Treats
It’s best to bring treats you made yourself, that way you know what the ingredients are. Bring a plate of colorful veggies with dip like homemade guacamole. A fruit platter is also a big hit, add exotic fruits such as kiwis, mangoes, and papayas.
It’s not only thoughtful to bring something but it also ensures you have some healthy options to nibble on. Try making my cranberry cookies, they are easy to make and they have a combination of chewy goodness and tart cranberry sweetness.
When bringing treats you made, you’re not just looking out for yourself. You also contribute to the variety of choices available at the party. Who knows, your veggie platter might become the unexpected star of the evening!
Remember, it’s all about balance. While you’re at the party, feel free to enjoy the offerings, but be mindful of what you’re eating. Engage in conversations, and focus on socializing rather than solely on the food.
One tip that can be a lifesaver is to eat before you go to parties, this is what I do. If you aren’t hungry you aren’t as tempted to eat something you’ll regret later. Bring an extra snack like a Larabar or homemade trail mix you can carry in your purse or pocket. – The key is to plan ahead to stay on track.
Homemade trail mix recipe:
- Mixed raw nuts such as almonds and pecans
- Dried fruit such as apricots, cranberries, and raisins
- Seeds such as pumpkin and sunflower
- A pinch of sea salt
You can eat these raw or roast the nuts in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. Let them cool completely before adding the fruit, seeds, and salt, then toss until blended. Add a handful to a resealable silicone bag to take with you.
For healthy snack ideas check out: Healthy Foods And Snacks
Enjoy The Season While Staying Healthy
Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay
Now, let’s switch gears a bit and talk about staying on top of your game. The holiday hustle can be overwhelming, but don’t let it run you down. Make sure you get your regular exercise whether it’s a walk after dinner or a home workout. I like using the online gym for people with MS called OptimalBody Personal Fitness.
Staying active will not only keep you strong and mobile but also boost your mood. On the topic of mood, don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. It’s like a magical reset button for your body. Aim for those seven to eight hours to recharge your energy levels and keep stress at bay. And speaking of stress, take a moment for yourself. Self-care is essential amidst holiday chaos. To calm down take a bubble bath, read a good book, or do a few minutes of meditation.
Hydration is another factor during this time. With all the tempting beverages around, it’s easy to forget the good ol’ H2O. But trust me, staying hydrated is extremely important. So, keep that water bottle handy and sip away.
Speaking of drinks, let’s talk about – alcohol. Parties generally have lots of alcohol available. Some, like bourbon and whiskey, and possibly the holiday punch have gluten. But, alcohol and MS are not a good combination.
They say “moderation is key” but alcohol, even one glass can make you feel unsteady. This puts you at a higher risk of falling and getting hurt. Alcohol can also cause sleep issues and worsen bladder symptoms. Instead, choose real apple cider or mulled apple cider with spices like cinnamon. Always ask what is in the holiday drink before consuming it or avoid it although.
Staying Healthy Through the Holidays
Photo by Brett Sayles
Lastly, don’t forget to listen to your body. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need a break, take it. The holidays are about joy and connection, not stressing over that perfect moment. Remember, be mindful of what you are eating, stay active, and prioritize self-care. If you do slip up don’t be hard on yourself – no one is perfect.
So, there you have it – easy tips for staying healthy throughout the holidays. Enjoy the festivities, savor the flavors, and make your health a priority. Here’s to a season full of joy, good health, and heartwarming memories.
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Staying Healthy Through the Holidays
