December 2003
Focus on a healthy balance of food, activity, and fun. There’s no need to raise your stress level over the holiday season by trying to make dramatic changes in your lifestyle. Just follow these simple steps so you can have tons of energy and plenty of holiday spirit.
BE REALISTIC. Plan ahead for holiday greetings and feasts. If you are over-hungry, it’s natural to over-eat with all the temptations of holiday tables. The secret is to eat something light but filling an hour or so before events. Fuel yourself with a piece of string cheese, a small muffin, some beef jerky, or half a sandwich before you go out—that way you will be able to make more sensible choices later.
BE ADVENTUROUS. Expand your holiday treat selection with a variety of colorful fruits and veggies. Produce brightens up holiday tables and boosts your immune system at the same time. Drink to everyone’s health with a spicy tomato juice "mocktail" or hot apple cider. For dessert, think fresh fruit salad or fruit slices with a yogurt dip in addition to pies and cakes.
BE FLEXIBLE. Stop fretting about your favorite holiday foods. The key is learning to balance what you eat and your physical activity over several days. Rather than skipping a meal, balance a heavy-duty holiday buffet by going light at breakfast and lunch beforehand. Relax, take a deep breath, and remind yourself that you don’t have to eat everything right now. All the goodies will be around next year and the year after that. Start with small portions, eat slowly, and savor every bite. Listen carefully to internal signals that you are full. Before or after the party, take an invigorating walk with your friends and family to help you clear your head and digest your meal.
Happy Holidays!