It seems no sooner than we get through Halloween night and the influx of sugary treats we sneak from our resident ghosts and goblins and we are on to the Christmas season and its intoxication of the senses. Along with the fun of preparing for the holidays comes the inevitable holiday work parties, cookie exchange and family dinners. This is followed by the overindulgent New Years Eve and leads right into the guilt of a new year of resolutions and the determination of a healthier you.

I am in the belief that holidays should be enjoyable and we shouldn’t feel as though we need to count all the calories at every party and feel as though we are somehow missing out on the true meaning of the season…  Eating! I mean spending time with our loved ones and friend. However, there are some tips for being able to enjoy the treats of the season while still maintaining balance in our lives.

* Do not skip meals!

-While it may seem sensible to skip a meal so you can load up at the holiday party, it actually can have to opposite effect of causing you to binge/overeat.  

-Ensure to eat a balanced breakfast in the morning to promote a boost in metabolism.  

* Eat the rainbow!

-Try to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables. Not only will this help you balance out the other calorie rich foods but you will reap the benefits of:  

-Red – phytonutrients – reducing risks of diabetes, improve skin quality

-Orange & yellow – carotenoids – improving immune function, promotes healthy joints

-Green – antioxidants – detoxifies, provide digestive enzymes

-Blue & purple – resveratrol – memory booster, fights inflammation

-White – bone health and hormonal balancing

* Enjoy your holiday favourites in moderation

-Avoid overfilling your plate by following the half plate of veggies above

-Use a smaller plate to encourage smaller portions

-As mentioned, refrain from missing meals that may contribute to binge eating

* Be mindful of alcohol consumption

-Aside from the obvious effects of consuming a few too many cocktails, many drinks contain high amounts of sugar and the calories quickly add up.

-Ensure to keep hydrated by consuming 1-2 glasses of water for every alcoholic drink

* Keep Moving!

-Make sure you balance out your holiday indulgence with moderate exercise.  

-Engage your family to take a walk after your dinner though the neighbourhood.  Not only are you getting to burn off the turkey coma, but you get to spend quality time with family which is priceless.

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