In anticipation of holiday office parties and family gatherings, it can be tempting as skip meals. But, eating regular meals ensures that you meet all your nutritional needs and prevents binging at that holiday party later. Summer Fresh Salad Shakers are a nutritious pack-and-go option if you find yourself time crunched leading up to the festive season.
Maintaining regular physical activity can reduce the impact of holiday indulgences. Create a new tradition by encouraging the whole family to go out for a walk after a big festive meal to burn excess calories and enjoy time together.
Whether you are lining up for the holiday buffet or passing bowls around family-style, filling your plate with high fibre vegetables and whole grains before you add other items will provide satiety with fewer calories.
Avoid stress and keep your entertaining uncomplicated. One option is to a plan a potluck and ask guests to share the meal preparation. Or, simplify your menu by putting the effort into your turkey and then serving a selection of tasty and wholesome Summer Fresh Salads such as Wild Rice Salad with Cranberry and Butternut Squash, Wheatberry Salad and Multigrain Salad.
During the holidays the house is filled with all sorts of tempting candy, cookies, and other high calorie treats. Control your snacking by stocking wholesome options like a handy squeeze bottle of Summer Fresh Hummus to have with whole grain crackers and veggie sticks instead of grabbing the sweets.
Eggnog, punch and cocktails contain empty calories. Keep hydrated and help prevent weight gain by drinking water more often during the holidays. For a tasty calorie-free spritzer, serve sparkling lemon water in a fancy glass garnished with a lime or lemon wedge and sprig of mint.
Sleep is essential for emotional health and well-being to cope with the stresses of the holiday season. Studies also show that those who get at least 7 hours of sleep per night have can control their appetite and tend to maintain their weight better.
There is a tendency to overdo everything during the holidays. Plan to wow your guests with one or two key dishes and keep everything else simple and straightforward. Looking for a simple appetizer with that wow-factor? Try one of the new Summer Fresh Layered Dip Kits and serve it in a trifle bowl for extra panache.
It doesn't have to be a big monetary donation; you can donate inexpensive canned goods to your local food bank or volunteer a couple of hours at a local charity. Caring for those who are less fortunate will really give your festive spirit a jumpstart.
Trying to maintain a strict diet over the holidays can make you unhappy and ultimately cause a rebound effect where you abandon healthy eating principals altogether. It's okay to indulge a little, as long as you remember to practice portion control.