5 Tips to Stay Social (and Drink) During the Holidays
The holiday party season can be a mixed experience for those trying to manage their weight. While it's a cheerful time filled with opportunities to connect with friends, colleagues, and loved ones, holiday gatherings often come with tempting treats that can lead to feelings of guilt if you overindulge. On the other hand, if you don't allow yourself any leeway, you might feel deprived, which can create unnecessary anxiety during this festive season.
With open bars, dessert buffets, and catered restaurant meals, declining the invitation can seem like the only option if staying on track is a priority.
Holiday food and beverage stress is so common that I have put together five of my best strategies for staying social while prioritizing your health.
1) HAVE AN ALCOHOL PLAN
A few drinks can initiate a chain reaction, leading to increased calorie intake. In addition to the calories consumed from alcohol, being under the influence can make you more likely to choose less nutritious food options, whether it's overeating at the event or stopping for pizza on the way home. Therefore, entering a holiday gathering with a plan for what and how much you intend to drink is important.
If you're worried about peer pressure, stick to clear beverages. This way, you can switch to a seltzer with ice, which will appear the same. Consider adding a slice of lemon or lime for extra flavor.
2) TRY THE THREE-BITE STRATEGY
Whether you're attending a holiday cookie swap or a cocktail party, there's no reason to feel deprived if your favorite dessert or cheese plate catches your eye. Enjoy three decadent bites without guilt. After three bites, the novelty wears off, allowing you to sample a few treats without overindulging.
3) TRY THE "TWO-FROM-FOUR" METHOD
The 'two-from-four' method is a powerful tool for managing your calorie intake while enjoying a social experience. It's especially effective when dining at a restaurant, making it ideal for upcoming celebratory dinners. The concept is simple: You have four options- a starter, a main course, a dessert, and an alcoholic drink. But with the 'two-from-four' method, you're in control. You can select any two items from the list and savor them fully, empowering you to enjoy the meal without feeling restricted.
4) RESET YOUR PALATE
When you're caught up in a pattern of eating, drinking, and celebrating, it can be hard to break the cycle. To help with this, bring gum, mints, or a disposable toothbrush with you. Once you've finished eating and feel moderately full, take a step back and freshen your breath. This is a great way to deter mindless eating.
5) CHECK-IN WITH YOUR MINDSET
It's important to remember that the holiday season is about more than just tempting treats. Feeling guilty about indulgences can lead to self-sabotage and unnecessary stress. Instead of fixating on a slice of pie, remind yourself of the other nutritious foods you enjoyed throughout the day. Maintaining good nutrition during the holidays doesn't require perfection all the time. It's about making more nutritious choices than non-nutritious ones and indulging occasionally without feeling guilty.