Healthy Holiday Eating Habits

3 Tips for Finding Balance with Healthy Holiday Eating

It's that time of year again. Halloween candy might be sitting on the counter, Thanksgiving planning has already begun, and visions of holiday cookies dance in your head. As the holiday season gets underway in Des Moines, you may have several parties with friends, family, or coworkers filling your calendar. And, let's be honest, most of these revolve around food!

You've certainly seen articles or headlines on ways to cut carbs or make healthy alternatives for the holidays. Certainly, this post could focus on that, but is it really practical? For many people, the holidays are a time to indulge a bit, and that's OKAY as long as you don't get trapped in a cycle of indulgence (ceasing your workouts, eating lots of sugar, partaking in endless leftovers, etc.)

Here's the truth, changing your diet for a meal or even a full day won't derail your healthy habits. In fact it can help you recognize how much better your body feels when you fuel it well. When you eat well and move your body most of the time, your body will tell you when something is off.

While were not nutritionists, we see every day how mindful choices support better energy, focus, and healing. Here are 3 simple healthy holiday eating tips to enjoy the

holidays without guilt.

1. Eat the Good Stuff First

At parties and big holiday meals the foods that serve your body best are often the last ones you put on your plate. Try flipping the script! Start with salad, roasted veggies, or fruit, along with a protein like turkey or ham. By filling up with nutrient dense foods, you'll naturally have less room on your plate (and in your stomach) for stuffing, cheesy potatoes, or dessert. You'll eat more food with fewer calories, feel satisfied, and still be able to enjoy your favorites. Now that's a win!

2. Use the "Heck YES or NO" Philosophy

This one is simple and powerful. When it comes to indulging on holiday treats, if it's not a Heck YES, it's a No. If you see a dessert spread with your absolute favorite once-a-year treat (like Dr. Adam's mom's famous ginger snap cookies), go for it! That's a "Heck YES." But if it's something you're just eating because it's there, like store bought cookies or a random cupcake, it's probably not worth it.

You can even rate it on a scale of 1-10. If it's not an 8 or better, skip it. You'll enjoy what you truly love without mindless munching.

3. Make Family and Friends, NOT Food, your Focus

The holidays are about connection, not consumption. When you shift your focus to the people around you, the food becomes secondary. If snacks are sitting out, don't hover over the table. Move around, chat, play games, wash dishes, or join the kids outside in a snowball fight (hopefully just in December). Create new memories that don't revolve around eating. You'll feel fuller in all the best ways!

Bottom Line: You don't have to diet your way through the Holidays. Just approach them with balance and intention. Try these 3 tips at your next holiday gathering and notice how much better you feel.