In this Q&A series, Kelly Lawler, a registered dietitian and wellness manager at the Compass UHG Dining Program, answers your questions about healthy eating. Each month, you’ll get tips on improving your nutrition and well-being. We’d love to hear from you – share your questions in the comments.
We asked the expert: How do you navigate unhealthy food options during the holiday season?
Eating around the holidays can be tricky, but with some planning and a few helpful tips, you can enjoy holiday get-togethers without feeling guilty.
- Eat well-balanced meals and snacks throughout the day, so you don’t feel the need to overindulge at your event. When you deprive yourself, you may be more likely to reach for larger quantities of indulgent foods to satisfy your hunger.
- Fill your plate up with fruits and vegetables first, leaving a smaller space for denser foods and sweet treats.
- Practice mindful eating by paying full attention to the experience of eating and drinking by noticing the colors, smells, textures and flavors of the food and beverages.
If you do overindulge, don’t try to correct it the following day by reducing your intake. That practice may lead to irregular eating patterns that make it more difficult to regulate your appetite. Instead, get back to a normal, well-balanced routine the next day.
Join the well-being conversation today to learn more!
Happy holidays!
