Holiday Season Survival Guide

Surviving the holidays, one party at a time

‘Tis the season of holiday cheer, but with all those dinners, drinks and parties, it’s easy to get thrown off track and weighed down. Here are some easy tips to help you stay merry and healthy holiday season.

1. Never show up hangry.  The idea of “saving-up” your food and calories for a dinner or party that night will 1) make you cranky AF and 2) 100% lead to you seriously overeating at said event.  Instead, eat normally throughout the day and have a small snack, like a Greek yogurt or a cheese stick, before heading out to make sure you don’t immediately dive into the bread basket or grab 6 pigs in a blanket.
2. Go lighter on the liquor.  With all the toasting going on this season the booze adds up, FAST.  So before you head out each night give yourself a cap for the evening, like 2-3 drinks, and then have a glass of water (or seltzer) in between each round.  Then, stick to the “clears” like wine, champagne, beer, vodka or tequila with club soda and ditch the sugary, juice-filled cocktails that will spike your calorie intake and sabotage your goals.
3. Press the reset button. Factor in a day or two after each event where you can reset.  Aim to eat lots of vegetables, which are loaded in antioxidants to fight inflammation, combat puffiness around your face and eyes, and will replenish you with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.  Add in lean proteins, like eggs, turkey, chicken, and salmon, and triple up on your water intake.
4. Stash your own snacks. Office sweats are everywhere now and lead to mindless snacking.  Instead bring your own snacks to help you stay on track. Try dark chocolate squares, pistachio nuts, or broad beans and save your indulgence for something you truly want.
5. Manage the stressors.  The holidays may come with cheer but they can also come with a lot of stress.  Keep your stress levels in check by scheduling a weekly workout that you never miss, watching some funny holiday movies, hanging out with stress-free friends, and getting 7+ hours of sleep each–all of which boost feel good hormones that combat anxiety and lower the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.  And if you tend to overeat eat when you’re feeling stressed, then it is a good idea to keep a food journal to help you stay more mindful of those eating habits.

Wishing you a healthy and happy holiday season!

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