When it comes to the holidays, we have enough to stress about. Between scrambling last minute to purchase gifts, finalizing the guest list for the holiday party, and working over-time to pay off the credit card bills – food should be the least of our worries. Food plays a big role in the holiday season, but we often find ourselves stressing about it rather than enjoying it. Here are some of my favorite tips to erase the pressure of overeating this holiday season.

Don’t skip meals

A common plan that people have in mind is to skip breakfast and lunch to prepare for the dinner and dessert ahead. Skipping meals can cause you to overeat when it does come time for that holiday party. Think about it – when you skip breakfast on an ordinary day, your stomach starts to crave food up to hours before your lunch break, leading you to hit up the vending machine. If we stick to our normal routine and eat at consistent times (maybe even have a healthy snack or two between meals), then our bodies will not crave excess food at dinner time. This also prevents us from eating too fast in an effort to end the starvation.

Choose a smaller plate

If you are that guest who relates holiday dinners to second, third, and maybe even fourth helpings, then choosing a smaller plate may be in your favor. You can still make sure to grab one of everything and fit in all of your favorite foods, but shrinking your portions to a more reasonable size allows you to head back up to that buffet line without the guilt.

Fill your plate with the healthier menu items first

Start by filling your plate with salad and/or vegetables before scooping up the potatoes and stuffing. By the time you are done, there will be less space on your plate to fill with the less nutrient dense foods. Before going back for a refill – wait 10-15 minutes to see if you still feel hungry.

Pack mints and gum

This is a helpful tip, especially if you are the host of the party. We may find ourselves continuously snacking as we cook all day. Chewing on some gum or popping a mint will help to prevent these cravings from occurring and help us cut back on the appetizers before dinner is served.

Scratch the thought of needing to fast or over exercise the next day

This theory of needing to over exercise and/or not eat the day following a big meal can be very stressful and lead to undesired eating behaviors. Try to focus on the present and take the time to enjoy your holiday meal. Your body will require nutrient dense foods the following day just like any day, so fasting is not necessary.

Motivated to lose and/or maintain your weight but struggling with self control? Reach out today!