5 Tips to Help you Eat Healthy this Holiday Season

Where there’s a will, there’s a way!

Apple cider donuts, pumpkin pie and homemade whipped cream…sticking to your diet can be quite a challenge once the holidays roll back around. Check out 5 tips from Julia Christopher, a VENT Niskayuna personal trainer and VENT Studio instructor, that can help you stay on track this holiday season.

“So it’s that time of year again when holiday parties are in season, portions sizes become bigger, football is every Sunday, and the urge to indulge is ever present. Although it’s definitely time to celebrate, it’s also important to stay on track and not lose sight of your goals.

Here are some helpful tips I’ve used in the past in preparation for bikini competitions. It was definitely a challenge for me not to lose track, but finding a balance between enjoying life and staying healthy helped me persevere.

1. Never go to an event starving!

Always make sure that you eat before you go to a holiday event. This will help prevent you from eye-balling unhealthy foods and will keep your eyes on the real prize – a better you!

2. Bring your own prepped food!

As long as you have great friends that appreciate your dedication, prepping food for a party is a great way to ensure you are sticking to your goal.

3. Load up on healthy options!

f you don’t want to be “that guy” that brings their own Tupperware to a party, be sure to load up on protein, fruits, and veggies when you hit up the snack table. Steer clear from fatty dressings like ranch or bleu cheese and always skip out on fried foods, breads, pasta, and desserts. If it doesn’t have sauce, cheese, or other unnecessary fats…it’s the snack for you!

4. When in doubt, drink smart or not at all.

Let’s face it…avoiding alcohol during the holiday season is nearly impossible. Although all alcoholic beverages cause us to drink calories with no nutritional value whatsoever, there are certain alcohols that are healthier than others. Avoid dark beers and liquors, as they often contain more calories than the light ones. Simply put, stick to the rule – “the clearer the better.”

Stay hydrated!

Sometimes if you feel hungry, you might actually be thirsty! Make sure you stay hydrated all night and keep that dehydration and hunger feeling low.”

Store these 5 tips instead of additional calories this holiday season! How do you keep yourself on track during the holidays? Let us know, and comment below:

Contributors:
Julia Christopher, VENT Niskayuna/ Studio Personal Trainer
Victoria Smith, Marketing Support Intern
Jermaine Wright, Marketing & Promotions Manager
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