Three Healthy Habits for the Holidays

The holidays are upon us which means an abundance of meals, parties, and gatherings that are full of delicious and often unhealthy foods.  I’m sure you’re familiar with the experience of feeling off track from your health goals during this season.  But there’s good news -- it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.  You can still enjoy your holiday dishes and feel like you are on the right path to reaching your health goals.  Here are a three ways to enjoy the holidays without feeling deprived…
 
1.  Drink up.   Keep up with your water consumption throughout the day to keep yourself hydrated.  If you aren’t a fan of water, infuse it with some lemon or lime to add a little pop of flavor.  Staying well hydrated will help you digest your food better, keep your cravings under control, help with feeling less bloated and staying regular.   If you’re enjoying alcoholic beverages, it is helpful to have a tall glass of water before and after your alcoholic beverage to help keep hydrated.
 
2.  Remember the protein. High-quality protein is a nutritional superhero! Protein keeps you feeling full while providing energy. Enjoy a small handful of almonds, a cheese stick or hard-boiled egg before attending a holiday gathering to keep your eating efforts on track. So easy and delicious!
 
3.  Move your body.  I know that it can be difficult to fit in a daily workout during the holidays when your schedule is jam-packed.  It doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing.  Find your balance while considering your options -- pick a plan of action for the holidays that is feasible for you to do each day.  Is that starting off your day with a 20-minute yoga DVD at home?  Taking a walk on the treadmill during your favorite evening TV show?  Catching a group workout at the Rec Center?   Find what works for you, and something you will enjoy, so you will stick with it.  
 
Try these simple, but effective, tips to stay on track during the holidays. You will be glad you did as you jumpstart the new year!
 
Need some healthy snack suggestions for the holidays? Send me an email at sarawolfsen@gmail.com to request your free handout: 20 Healthy Snack Ideas.
 
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Sara Wolfsen is a Certified Health & Lifestyle Coach who specializes in helping people make their own healthy changes by providing private health coaching, nutrition education and wellness classes, and gentle weight-loss guidance and support.  Schedule your complimentary coaching session and learn more online at www.sarawolfsen.com.