3 Diet Tips for Healthy Holiday Eating

If you’re pursing a weight loss goal or must abide by specific dietary restrictions due to a medical problem, you may be concerned about how your gatherings with friends and family for the holidays may affect your health.

Many celebrations with family and friends include plenty of indulgent meals and treats that can potentially set your weight loss goals back or otherwise negatively impact your health.

Although holiday gatherings may present certain challenges, there is no need to stress yourself out about sticking to your diet. A few key guidelines that emphasize moderation and patience can help you navigate your way through this part of the year in a way that preserves your health and allows you to focus on enjoying your time with your loved ones. These include:

Arriving with (and sticking to) a plan: Before your holiday gathering begins, determine ahead of time how much food you intend to eat. This may vary depending on your individual dietary restrictions and weight goals; if possible, find out what kind of food is being prepared ahead of time. If a particular option would be ideal for you, make it known to the hosts of the gathering ahead of time or prepare it yourself. Once you’ve determined the types and amounts of food you plan to eat, stick to that plan throughout the day.

Drink plenty of water: You will find your food to be much more filling when you drink lots of water. Try to drink roughly one glass of water each hour; you may find this easier by drinking one cup of water before your meal, one cup during the meal, and one cup afterward.

Talk to your loved ones: Remember that the main point of your holiday gathering is to spend time with the people you love and enjoy their company. Instead of absent-mindedly picking at hors d’oeuvres, focus on having conversations with the people around you and participating in the moment.

If you struggle to manage your diet during the holidays or any other part of the year, a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center may be able to help. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Tips to Navigate the Holiday Season And Keeping Your Waistline Intact

Getting through the holidays without putting on extra pounds can be a real challenge. There are many opportunities to go overboard. However, just because the temptations are greater, doesn’t mean you have to fall victim to the traps of holiday weight gain

Here are some tips to help you navigate the holiday season while keeping your waistline intact:

  • Control portions.Research has shown that the more food we’re served, the more we will eat even if we don’t particularly like what we’re eating. Try to minimize the size of your portions, especially with calorie-heavy foods like gravy, eggnog, and desserts.
  • Keep moving. Exercise has proven to be important for weight loss.  Exercise is also essential in helping you cope with stress and increases your level of energy, giving you a boost when trying to tackle that long holiday “to-do” list. Even if you don’t have time to get to the gym, try to squeeze in 10-minute intervals of activity throughout the day.
  • Weigh in regularly.Checking the scale at least once a week is a true test for maintenance. Remember to do this first thing in the morning, in your nightclothes, and after emptying your bladder.
  • Have a healthy breakfast.Numerous studies confirm that those who have breakfast eat fewer calories throughout the day. Eating breakfast also powers up the brain and boosts metabolism.
  • Put it on a plate.It’s hard to keep track of how much food you’re eating when you nibble without using a plate. Serving meals and snacks on a plate will help you avoid munching and consuming extra calories.
  • If you don’t love it, don’t eat it. Trying new foods is always exciting but why waste calories if you don’t love what you are eating? One bite is usually enough to tell whether you love it or not. If something is not for you, just leave it on your plate and use the extra calories for something you love.
  • Take a few bites. A piece of pecan pie or glass of eggnog can set you back by more than 400 calories. To avoid gaining weight, enjoy just a few bites or sips of these rich treats.
  • Savor every bite.Sit down, relax, and take your time to experience the flavors, textures, and aroma of each food. Eating slowly will help you enjoy the meal and will give your brain time to signal to your stomach that you’re

By following these tips you can enjoy all the delicious joys that are associated with the holiday seasons and not suffer the usual consequences.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.