Thanksgiving is over and many of us may have eaten too much pie and stuffing. Instead of giving up on our health goals, try making simple swaps to keep you feeling your best for the rest of the year. You’ll be ahead of the game once the New Year starts!
By Carmelita Lombera, Clinical Nutritionist, Certified Health Coach, Fitness Nutrition Specialist
Try these tips to keep your night healthy, happy and safe:
- Try starting your day with a balanced meal that includes whole grains, fruit, vegetables and some type of lean protein. A protein shake can be a great option too!
- Have a small meal or snack before the event so you aren’t tempted to overeat later.
- Savor foods you truly enjoy and pass up on those that don’t really interest you.
- Move your socializing away from the table or appetizer trays to minimize mindless snacking.
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When it comes to alcohol, always drink water first! Moderate alcohol consumption is defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks for men. Remember, alcohol is a toxin! Try “mocktails” to enjoy a festive drink to keep your liver happy and waist line trim!
- The holidays are a great time for gathering with friends and family over food and drinks. With just a little preparation, you can enjoy celebratory foods mindfully and still experience all that the season has to offer.
Fun “mocktail” ideas:
1. Freeze your favorite fruit—berries, stone fruit, and grapes—and blitz them in a blender with ice and a base of your choice, like club soda or sparkling water and garnish with a mint leaf, lemon wedge, or edible flowers!
2. Add even more electrolytes by using coconut water and iced unsweetened herbal tea
3. Need a pick me up? Use black coffee as your base (cold or hot depending on your mood), add milk choice, cinnamon, non-alcoholic rum extract, and low calorie sweetener like stevia
4. Get extra creative by blending vegetable juice like carrot juice, diet ginger beer, 1 tsp honey, lemon juice, and garnish with mint leaves!