'Tis the season for cookie platters, eggnog, buttery rolls, and that never-ending basket of candy canes at work (who HONESTLY ever craves a candy cane? You eat them because they're always packaged separately and look lonely). Friends and family gather, wine bottles are opened, and the holiday parties are endless and filled with treats.
I thought about writing how this is a testing time where healthy choices are difficult but necessary and how holiday parties are not an excuse to indulge. Bah humbug. Instead I think the message of balance and moderation is an important one at this time of year.
It's not often that you get to have your aunt's garlic mashed potatoes or your grandma's cinnamon strudel (neither of these things personally apply to me but they sound lovely and if you can relate I'd like an invite). Some foods are simply tradition and regardless of the calorie count, incredibly special. Unless you're a competitor and dieting for a show coming up (bless your soul), there's no reason not to enjoy some of these exciting things.
I have a few suggestions for these holdiay parties and food-based get-togethers. Just some tips I have found to work that enable me to enjoy these times while also feeling happy about my fitness lifestyle:
*(p.s. these asterisks are intended to be snowflakes, clever, and quaint)
*Eat Something Before you Eat: before you go rock your socks off at your work's holiday party, have something at home that is healthy and somewhat filling. Oats, almonds, a piece of whole wheat toast with peanut butter etc. If you arrive famished, you'll be "that guy" with his elbows out, hogging the ham and cheese platter. Don't be that guy.
*"And I'll Have a Water": when you're boozin' it's easy to let empty calories rack up and an illusion of hunger often ensues. Make sure you're drinking water with each beverage to stay hydrated and fill your bod with some high quality H2O that will keep cravings at bay.
*Bring a Dish to Share: I made some peanut butter protein bars for a Christmas party last year that were a HIT. Me, myself, and I LOVED 'em. Bring something relatively healthy that you truly enjoy and will eat when a second slice of pie will bust your seams open. While I may not have perfected my protein bars, you may have something deliciously healthy to share with others (and I'll take that recipe please).
*Go for a Walk: I'm not talking after your feasting like many suggest (although that's great). Usually after I attend such functions I'm tired, full, and wanting a couch with some netflicks. What I mean is go for a walk, take a bike ride, or get in a quality gym sesh BEFORE the party. When you start the day with something healthy, you're more apt to continue like-minded decisions throughout the day.
*Wear something flattering: when you like how you look in the mirror, you're more likely to treat yourself right.
*Plan for Tomorrow: Prepare your meals and write down your workout for the next day. If you wake up the following morning still stuffed and without a plan, it's easy to get down and reach for unhealthy options. Have fun for a night knowing you have the tools ready to be back on your A-game the following day.
These are just a few things that I have found to help during what can be a tricky time. Remember most IMPORTANTLY: it's a time to enjoy the company of others. Focus on the music, the laughs, the stories, and the friendship. Food is fun and should be enjoyed but instead of rivaling Santa's belly, give yourself the gift of health, confidence, and the merriment of moderation:)
