How to Stay on Track During the Holidays

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is tomorrow? I am still in shock I feel like this year has flown by. Since Thanksgiving is tomorrow that means the holiday eating has officially arrived because after Thanksgiving we have Christmas and of course New Years. I figured I would share some helpful tips to help keep you on track during this holiday season. 

As you guys knew, Kim and I rarely rarely use the D word (diet), instead we say that we have introduced a new lifestyle change. We are slowly but surely adopting new habits and we both don't want to throw all of our hard work away by over-indulging over the next Month. Here are a few tips to help you stay away from the unwanted holiday pounds!

1. Skip the Fatty Appetizers

Whether you are having a holiday party or a family gathering, try and stay away from  the tempting, eye-catching appetizers. Instead of filling up on the fatty snacks before you eat your main course, go for the vegetable tray and fresh fruit if it is available. If not you can always bring your own!

2. Bring Your Own Dish

If you were asked to bring a dish, resist the urge to make a fatty entree and make something healthy. Nowadays it is pretty easy to find a healthier alternative to any meal you can think of. This way you know at least one of the dishes is lower in fat and calories, and you can eat more of that one.

3. Try a Little of Everything

No one wants to feel left out and depressed about what they can't eat, especially around a huge table of scrumptious food, so try everything! Just be sure to watch your portions. Put a small slice of white meat on your plate with about 1/4 cup or a spoonful of each side dish, you can skip the butter for the roll or just skip the roll all together and enjoy your meal with the rest of your family and friends. 

4. Eat Slowly and Enjoy Conversation

When everyone around you gets up for the second round of food, continue to eat slowly and remember to put your fork down between each bite. Be sure to bring your water bottle and fill up on some good 'ole H2O during your meal and join in on the conversation. These are all good ways to make your first plate of food last longer, so you won't be tempted to get up for seconds.

5.  Excuse Yourself From the Table

When you are finished eating, politely excuse yourself from the table and join some of the other activities outside of the dining room. Go play with the kids, watch the game with the guys or even help out with cleaning the table and washing the dishes. Do whatever you can find to keep your mind off of the food left on the table.

6. Have Dessert 

Quite frankly dessert is my favorite part of every meal! There is no reason why you cannot treat yourself to dessert. Again the key is portion control, either have a very small piece of each or pick one dessert and have a normal-sized amount. Try and skip the ice cream, or any other creamy topping with unnecessary calories.

7. Have Fun!

It is not impossible to enjoy your holiday festivities without falling off the nutrition bandwagon. It is all about portion control! Keep track of what you put in your mouth because once you begin to chew it is already too late. Do not completely deprive yourself of everything, have fun!

8. Don't skip your workout

The gym is still your friend, and just because you are off of work does not mean that you should skip the gym or your workout. If you can't make it to the gym, park the car farther away for a longer walk home. Be creative, a 5 minute workout is better than no workout at all. 

I hope these tips help, I know that I will be using them myself. Thanks for reading <3