With thanksgiving in our rear view and Christmas approaching fast, holiday gatherings are in full swing. As we all know, these festivities are almost always accompanied by gaudy feasts and seasonal treats. Subsequently, binge eating is a trap that’s super easy to fall into. Holiday hams, pumpkin pies, and Christmas cookies can be pretty tough to resist. Thankfully, staying in shape during the holiday season while still enjoying your festive favorites is completely doable. So, throw away the expectation of crash diets and extra time in the gym. Here are a few simple ways to remain healthy after a bit of holiday indulging.
Many do not realize that several staple holiday favorites are surprisingly good for you. For example turkey is high in protein along with several other nutrients like B6, zinc, and amino acid tryptophan. Turkey is also low in fat and even considered a superfood due to its vast health benefits. Research suggests turkey consumption helps boost the immune system, aids in healing, and is known to prevent vision loss. Similarly, holiday favorites like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce also serve up more than just good eats, but prove to be loaded with nutritious benefits as well.
Another health conscious way to enjoy your holiday feasts is intermittent fasting. This crave is growing extremely popular as it leaves you satiated while your body is able to burn fat. To achieve this practice, consume the last meal for the day before 7pm. In the morning, have a cup of coffee or tea to start your day. By noon you’re good to go, as 16 hours elapse. This method of meal placements restricts your eating to an 8-hour window. Focusing on when you eat rather than what you eat provides dietary freedom while simultaneously maintaining your natural physique.
Life is about balance. Try not to use the holidays as an excuse to veer too outside of your dietary norms. Feel free to enjoy whatever you like, but avoid consuming large amounts of unhealthy choices for the holiday’s sake. For example, if you are not a huge sweets eater, have a small slice of your family’s famous red velvet cake instead of several. Making small decisions like these relieves post meal regrets and guilt. Stay mindful of your goals by not over doing it. Your body will thank you in the end.
Eat, drink, and be merry! With one or all of these methods at bay, there is no reason to be afraid to enjoy. Rest assured you’re sure to come out on the other side of this season looking and feeling amazing. Here at Village Park, we understand the importance of having nutritious balanced meals. We are sure to provide our residents with options that are not only healthy but also delicious! To find out more about our communities, contact us at (770) 461-0502.