5 Ways to Make Unhealthy Holiday Meals a Little Bit Healthier

Keep Portion Sizes Reasonable

When faced with a holiday spread, it can be tempting to overload your plate. However, keeping portion sizes reasonable can go a long way in preventing overindulgence. Focus on small servings of your favorite dishes instead of trying a bit of everything.

Fill Up On Veggies and Lean Protein First

Before diving into the heavier foods, make a point to fill at least half your plate with veggies. Have some lean protein like turkey or fish too. This will help you feel satisfied sooner and prevent overeating.

Watch Your Beverages

Holiday drinks like eggnog and cocktails can add major calories. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water and stick to one glass to keep added calories in check.

Allow Yourself a Treat in ModerationÂ

Depriving yourself completely can backfire. Have a small serving of your favorite treat, whether it’s a cookie or slice of pie. Savor each bite. This prevents feeling deprived which can lead to overdoing it later.

Don’t Skip Meals Beforehand

Going into a big meal overly hungry often results in making less healthy choices and eating too fast. Have a light protein-rich snack beforehand so you don’t arrive completely famished.

FAQ

How can I prevent overeating this holiday season?

Keeping reasonable portion sizes, filling up on veggies first, limiting high calorie beverages, allowing yourself a small treat, and not skipping meals beforehand are effective strategies to prevent holiday overeating.

What are some healthy holiday beverage choices?

Water, unsweetened tea, black coffee, and sparking water with fruit are all great lower calorie holiday beverage options.

Is it okay to have holiday treats?

Absolutely! Allowing yourself a small serving of your favorite holiday treat can prevent the feeling of deprivation which can lead to overindulgence. Focus on savoring each bite.

Why is filling up on veggies important?

Filling at least half your plate with nutrient-dense veggies before diving into heavier dishes helps provide bulk to help you feel satisfied sooner and prevent overeating.