Ah, the holidays—a time for family, fun, and let’s be honest, a whole lot of food. Between the cookies, casseroles, and festive cocktails, it’s easy to feel like your health goals are getting lost in the shuffle and you may find it difficult to healthy during the holidays.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose between enjoying the holidays and taking care of your health. With a few mindful strategies, you can navigate the season without feeling bloated, tired, or guilty.
Let’s talk about how to indulge mindfully, support your digestion, and actually feel healthy during the holidays.
It might seem like a smart idea to “save calories” by skipping breakfast or lunch before a big holiday dinner, but this can backfire. Arriving at the table starving makes it harder to make mindful choices, and you’ll likely end up overeating.
Instead, have a balanced meal or snack before heading out. Think protein, healthy fats, and fiber—like a boiled egg with avocado or some veggies and hummus. This keeps your blood sugar stable and helps you feel in control when you’re surrounded by tempting treats.
The holidays are full of delicious options, but you don’t have to try everything. Before filling your plate, take a moment to scan the table. Ask yourself:
Pick a few indulgences that truly bring you joy (Grandma’s pie? A special holiday drink?), and balance them with plenty of whole foods like veggies and lean proteins.
Holiday foods can be heavy on your digestive system—think rich gravies, creamy desserts, and processed snacks. Taking digestive enzymes can help your body break down these foods, making them easier to digest and mitigating some of the damage.
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With all the holiday cocktails, sugary drinks, and rich foods, it’s easy to forget about good old water. Dehydration can leave you feeling tired, bloated, and even hungrier than you actually are.
Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water each day, and alternate alcoholic drinks with a glass of water when celebrating. Adding a slice of lemon or some cucumber can make it feel a little more festive.
The holidays can throw off your usual routine, but that doesn’t mean you have to abandon movement altogether. Even a quick walk after dinner can help with digestion and reduce stress.
Find ways to stay active that feel good and fit into your schedule. Maybe it’s a short yoga session in the morning, a dance party with your kids, or a fun winter activity like ice skating. Remember, movement doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to happen.
It’s easy to overindulge when you’re caught up in the festivities, but your body has a way of telling you when it’s had enough. Pause during meals to check in:
Giving yourself permission to stop when you’re satisfied—not stuffed—can help you enjoy your meal without regret.
The holidays can be as exhausting as they are exciting. Between the parties, shopping, and family obligations, it’s easy to feel run-down, which makes it harder to make healthy choices.
Make time for yourself, even if it’s just 10 minutes a day. Whether it’s journaling, meditating, or taking a quiet walk, these little breaks can help you recharge and stay present.
Here’s the truth: You’re not going to eat perfectly during the holidays, and that’s okay. Be kind to yourself and focus on progress, not perfection. One meal—or even one week—won’t derail your health goals. It’s what you do most of the time that matters.
Enjoy the memories, the food, and the laughter. That’s what the holidays are all about.
The holidays don’t have to be all or nothing when it comes to your health. With a little mindfulness and a few simple strategies—like taking digestive enzymes and staying hydrated—you can enjoy the season while still feeling your best.
Wishing you a healthy, joyful holiday season! Stay balanced and feel healthy during the holidays.
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