Written By:  Judy Ulery, Arbonne Independent Consultant

shutterstock_230099638The holidays are upon us and it is such a beautiful time of year to celebrate with family and friends.  Most celebrations are centered around food and drink, so how can we continue our healthy eating and still enjoy the holidays?  Here are some tips that I have pulled from various sources…I hope that you will find them helpful.

Plan time for activity.  Most people have extra time over the holiday season because they’re not at work.  Plan on taking a daily brisk walk and escape from the busy household OR invite someone to come along….just do it!

Practice healthy holiday cooking.  Make sure to use healthier choices when it comes to cooking with oils, flours, etc.  Try steaming or quickly sautéing your veggies and topping with a little salt and pepper…delicious and nutritious.

Be realistic, don’t skip meals and don’t beat yourself up!  We all have our favorites during this season.  If you make the decision to splurge, enjoy it and don’t beat yourself up (gluten/dairy enzymes are a good idea too!).  Also, don’t try to release weight during the holidays, instead try to maintain your health.  

Eat until you’re satisfied, not stuffed.  As I always say to my kids, slow down and savor your food.  Sit down, get comfortable, put your fork down between bites and enjoy!

Drink 1 protein shake/day as a meal replacement.  This will help ensure that you are getting a great source of protein, plus 20 essential vitamins and minerals daily.

Moderate alcohol intake.  Alcohol is high in sugar and calories.  If having a glass of wine, choose to make it a spritzer (add sparkling water) to help reduce the sugar and calorie content.  If having a mixed beverage choose low sugar mixers such as LaCroix or pomegranate juice.  *Remember to avoid artificial sweeteners at all costs…they are toxic!

Take your vitamins and immunity booster.  Now is not the time to skip your daily vitamin dose…all the stress and added sugar can cause you to be more susceptible to   getting sick and that’s no way to spend the holiday.

Stock up on healthy snacks.  Make up some healthy snack bags for the fridge and car…that way when your running out the door you will have healthy options at your fingertips.

Prepare for outings.  Survey party buffets before filling your plate.  If you are going to a big party, don’t starve yourself all day…you will be setting yourself up to eat everything in sight.  Also, choose to plan some healthy eating days leading up to your event.

Take detox baths 2 X/week and drink 1-3 detox teas/day.  Detox tea and baths will help your body function better and improve your ability to process foods you don’t normally eat.

Talk with your host/hostess.  Find out what he/she is preparing and offer to bring a “healthy” dish or two to the gathering.

Don’t forget your Fizzy tabs.  If you find yourself reaching for caffeine, reach for a Fizzy tab instead.  You will be giving yourself a healthy boost of energy and increasing your metabolism.  Remember these have natural ingredients to help control hunger and appetite too!

Eat organic, green leafy salads with every meal (& watch your dressing choice). This is a great filler and wonderful source of nutrients.

Drink water and sleep!  Drink ½ your body weight in ounces of water daily AND get 7-9 hours of sleep nightly…your body and skin will thank you!

Schedule your appointments.  Make sure to see your Acupuncturist, Chiropractor and/or massage therapist during this very busy time of the year.  Take care of yourself so that you will feel your best during the holidays.

I encourage each of you to enjoy the holidays, plan time for activity, incorporate healthy recipes into your holiday meals, and don’t restrict yourself from enjoying your favorite holiday foods.  Moderation is key during the blessed time of the year! 

Merry Christmas and abundant blessings for the New Year.

Judy Ulery