Thanksgiving has passed, and most people are in full holiday mode. Why do most of us forget stick to healthy habits during the holidays each year?
The holidays are notorious for undermining diets, workout schedules and other healthy habits. We go to parties and eat enormous meals. We also have house guests and neighbors stopping by all of the time. This contributes to eating more foods that are high in fat and sugar, We also drink an excessive amount of alcohol that results in empty calories.
If you are serious about maintaining a healthy lifestyle during holidays, here are a few tips to help keep you on the straight and narrow path to health and fitness.
Stock Up on Salad Fixings
If you keep a good supply of salad ingredients on hand during the holidays, you will always have a quick lunch or dinner on hand. This helps when you’re too busy to cook a healthy meal, and you can avoid quick trips to the local fast food restaurant.
Chances are that some of your guests will be vegetarians or keeping a strict diet for medical reasons. Having salad ingredients ensures that you will have the right foods on hand. Plus, you never know how many guests enjoy a fresh salad with their dinner.
Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Alcohol consumption is often part of holiday celebrations. However, wine, beer and mixed drinks add significant calories without providing nutrition. You can still enjoy your favorite alcoholic beverage, but cut the calories, as well as the other negative effects, by alternating with plain water or seltzer water.
Freeze Leftover Desserts Immediately
You can minimize your exposure to those tempting holiday pies, cakes, and cookie leftovers, by freezing them immediately after the event. Wrap them carefully in a layer of plastic wrap, and then a layer of aluminum foil.
Most desserts hold up well with freezing, and will keep for several months.
Using this method, you can better limit your immediate access to sweets, but you can still enjoy them as a treat or reward at a later date.
Slip Out for a Quick Workout
One surefire way to deal with stress is to sneak out to the gym at any opportunity your busy schedule allows. A short time on the machines or a workout with weights can make a significant difference in how you feel. These mini-workouts will help to keep you feeling fit, which will translate to eating less and drinking less alcohol. In addition, a quick workout at the gym will give you additional energy for holiday preparation.
4 Ways to Stick to Healthy Habits During the Holidays – Conclusion
No one wants to be a Scrooge during the holidays. Most food and drinks are good for us in moderation. Unfortunately, this time of the year we ignore our common sense and indulge in excess.
By using these strategies, you can avoid overindulging during the holidays and maintain your health and fitness goals. You will then be able to return to your healthy habits more easily. You might even be able to keep your New Year’s Resolution this year.
