Four days to go before Christmas! With all the delicious treats and meals that come with the holidays, it can be hard to keep up with your healthy eating habits. 

But fear not! In this blog post, we’ll give you some tips on how to enjoy the festivities while still keeping an eye on your health. From filling your tummy with fruits and veggies and choosing lean meats to limiting sugars and sodium and going for whole grains, there are plenty of ways to make sure you’re eating healthy during the holidays.

1. Fill Up on Fruits and Veggies

The holidays can be a time of indulgence, and it’s easy to forget about eating healthy. But that doesn’t mean you have to forgo all the tasty food this season! One great way to keep your meals nutritious is to fill up on fruits and veggies. Instead of just having mashed potatoes as a side dish, why not try roasting some carrots and Brussels sprouts? You can even get creative with fruit-based desserts like baked apples or homemade fruit salad. 

Not only are these options healthier, but they also add a burst of flavor and color to your holiday spread. You’ll also be getting an extra dose of essential vitamins and minerals — a must during the colder months! So don’t let the holidays stand in the way of eating healthy. With a few simple tweaks, you can create delicious and nutritious meals that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!

2. Choose Lean Meats

Lean meats are like the MVPs of the holiday meal. Not only are they low in fat and calories, but they are also extremely versatile. Whether you're serving up a traditional turkey dinner or looking for something a bit different, lean meats like chicken and turkey are a great choice. 

If you're looking to switch things up even more, try experimenting with some plant-based options such as tofu or tempeh. These vegan proteins are not only delicious, but they come packed with essential vitamins and minerals that will give your holiday feast an extra boost of nutrition.

The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to lean proteins, so don't be afraid to think outside of the box and get creative with your holiday meal. You'll be sure to impress your guests and keep everyone feeling satisfied and energized throughout the festivities.

3. Go for Whole Grains

Just like with lean meats, whole grains are tasty, filling, and nutritious. This holiday season, opt for whole grain breads or quinoa instead of white bread or rice. This is a great way to keep you feeling full and satisfied while providing your body with important fiber and nutrients. Quinoa especially is a fantastic source of protein and can be used as a base for main dishes or sides! 

Whole grains are not only healthier than their processed counterparts but they also add an amazing flavor to any dish. As you’re planning out your holiday spread, don’t forget to include some delicious and nutritious whole grains on your menu!

4. Limit Added Sugars and Salt

It’s no secret that the holidays are filled with delicious treats and tempting sweets. However, while it’s always nice to indulge in our favorite desserts, we should also take care not to overdo it when it comes to sugary snacks.

Too much sugar can have a negative impact on your health, so try to limit your intake of added sugars like candy, cookies, and cakes. Additionally, be sure to watch how much salt you’re using when cooking meals — the extra sodium can also have a detrimental effect on your overall health. 

It’s important to enjoy yourself during the holiday season without sacrificing your health. Limiting added sugars and sodium can be a great way to ensure you stay healthy during this time of year.

And luckily, there are plenty of delicious dishes that don’t require extra sugar or salt. Why not make a list of healthier alternatives to satisfy your sweet tooth? There’s no reason why you can’t enjoy the holidays while taking care of your body at the same time!

5. Drink Plenty of Water

Overindulgence goes hand in hand with tasty and delicious holiday meals. This is a fact of life that many of us face each and every holiday season. But it doesn't have to be this way! Staying hydrated is the key to not overindulging so that you'll feel energized and healthy during this time of year.

It goes without saying that water should be your go-to beverage of choice not just throughout the holidays but all year round. Not only will it keep you hydrated and feeling your best, but it can also fill you up without adding extra calories or sugar. That's why if you're on a diet or just want to limit your food intake, consider having a glass of water with each meal or snack. This will help you eat less and, in turn, stay healthier during the festive season.

So don't let the holidays be an excuse to abandon all of your healthy habits. Instead, make sure you're drinking plenty of water and you'll be able to enjoy all of the yummy food without feeling guilty or overindulging. That's the best way to eat healthy during the holidays and it will ensure that you can enjoy the season without compromising your health!

Extra Tip: Mind Your Portion Sizes

The holidays can be a time of temptation when it comes to eating. That's why it's important to keep an eye on portion sizes. You don't have to miss out on all the delicious dishes, but by minding your servings, you can still enjoy the food without going overboard. 

It's easy to feel like you need to take a second helping of everything, but don’t let the abundance of food fool you. Stick to smaller portions and savor each bite. That way you can still enjoy all the holiday feasts without overdoing it and feeling guilty afterward.

Conclusion

Eating healthy during the holidays doesn't have to be difficult! With these tips, you can make sure that you enjoy the holiday season without sacrificing your health. Have a happy and healthy holiday season!