We’re smack-dab in the middle of the holiday season, the sprint from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day that’s centered so much around food.
There are parties, big dinners, and trays of festive cookies. Pair that with a lengthy to-do list and a busier-than-usual schedule, and you can start to feel overextended and overstuffed.
I’m 100% on board with savoring the season, which includes enjoying the holiday foods I love the most. But personally, I know I feel better physically (and mentally) if I do that while maintaining some of the habits that keep my energy level and mood up.
Eat protein with breakfast
Protein is essential for so many functions and components of our bodies. It also helps us build lean body mass and is satisfying, so we’re fuller longer after the meal. And it digests more slowly than simple carbs like a bagel or donut. When I started including more protein at breakfast, I noticed I felt better, which was motivation to keep it up. Get some ideas here: 10 High-Protein Breakfasts To Start Your Day.
Keep sweets after meals
Eating sweets on an empty stomach can send your blood sugar on a roller-coaster ride, climbing high and then dipping low. If you tend to feel sleepy or even fuzzy-headed when you eat or drink something high in sugar between meals, you may be especially sensitive to those blood sugar swings like I am. Move sweets to after meals, when the nutrients in the foods you’ve just eaten can help slow down your body’s absorption of sugar.
Put a fruit bowl on the counter
Eating fresh fruit feels like a no-brainer in the summer. But somehow, during the darker, shorter, and colder days, it may not be front of mind. I’m a big proponent of a countertop fruit bowl, because what we see is what we’ll reach for. In-season fruit is the freshest, so fill the bowl with oranges, clementines, and grapefruit plus pre-rinsed apples and pears so they’re grab-and-go.
Make it easier
I’m more likely to include a salad with meals if the greens are pre-washed or roast sweet potatoes if they’re already cut into cubes. In these busy seasons of life, treat yourself to convenience foods in the produce section: the pre-washed, pre-trimmed veggies that need zero prep.
Set boundaries
Tis the season for well-meaning great aunts pushing food onto you at holiday gatherings. If you’re already feeling full or simply don’t want it (but don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings), say that you’d absolutely love to take some home. If you’re overwhelmed by the amount of food in your house, freeze treats for later–you’ll be so happy you’ve got them in the dreary days of January.
Give yourself grace
You may be eating more food than usual–or richer dishes than usual. Remember that it’s natural (and wonderful) to celebrate occasions with special foods. They’re part of what makes the holiday memorable. And saying no to your very favorites may make you feel deprived, which can trigger overeating. Personally, I know my body will naturally crave lighter foods after the holidays. In the meantime, this is a time to enjoy yourself with friends, family—and yes, good food!
