Coach Courtney here!
Now that Halloween has passed and you avoided all of that candy, we are heading into the real Holiday seasons, and this is where it gets tricky. Starting with one of my favorites-Thanksgiving, Turkey Day, the big feast! I know this holiday was always one of my biggest downfalls. Before the big day, you may be faced with other choices. A small gathering for a football game, or any other sort of Holiday party. While we have a bit of time to figure out how to navigate Thanksgiving Day, let’s talk about how to stay healthy while still having a great time!
Be Strategic.
Come up with your strategy of staying on plan and stick with it. If you have a party or an event coming up later in the day that might pose the temptation of delicious goodies, have a lighter breakfast or lunch, and even indulge in a larger healthy snack before it’s time to head to your event. This could help you feel fuller and less interested in eating all of the things in front of you. Say no to the things that you may overindulge in.
Slow down and be mindful.
When having a meal try to take it slow, and if you think you may want seconds, give your body time to digest what you’ve already consumed. I know from experience that anytime I would ever go for seconds by the time I would finish my second helping I was overly full, felt sick, and ultimately the regret set in. Say no to second-guessing yourself.
Drink your water!
Say no to dehydration and overheating. During the winter months, we tend not to think as much about getting hydrated as we do when it’s warmer. Drinking a glass of water or two before your meal can help you feel fuller and eat less. So before you dig in, hydrate!
Potluck? Offer to bring a covered dish!
Prepare something for everyone that is healthy and enjoyable. This not only helps keep you on track, but you can share your recipe with others. Running short on time? Grab a veggie tray, usually, those are a big hit! Say no to feeling pressured to making something unhealthy because that’s what everything else is.
Watch the alcohol consumption.
Say no to empty calories. Drinking alcohol is pretty much the one thing you want to try to avoid. A glass of wine is okay, just remember to track it because liquid calories are real, and they add up fast. If you drink too much, you might not feel so great after, and without it, you will be able to enjoy your food more. I know I always enjoy eating my calories as opposed to drinking them.
Remember, there is always a new tomorrow. Whether you have succeeded or not in keeping yourself in check, just remember there is always a chance for a fresh start the next day. The worst thing you can do is punish yourself for having that slice of cake or that spinach dip with all of the crackers. Wake up, drink a glass of water, and keep on tracking! Say no to self-punishment!
