Free to the Community Workshop from Sonoma Valley Hospital: Stress and the Holidays; Learn to Enjoy These Special Times of the Year

With the joy of the holidays and spending time with loved ones comes the tendency to stray from a healthy diet.  Here are tips on how to enjoy your holidays healthfully from Allison Evanson, Sonoma Valley Hospital’s Registered Dietitian and Clinical Nutrition Coordinator:

1.    Eat slowly – Instead of eating your food in a rush, take the time to enjoy the taste, smell, and appearance of each bite, and you may realize that you are satisfied with less. 

2.    Splurge carefully – Don’t feel pressured to eat every sweet treat or decadent dish that passes you by; save your splurge for something you will truly savor!

3.    Stay active – Try to fit in small bouts of exercise throughout the day or schedule longer workout sessions.  Staying active can help burn off any excess calories you consume.

4.    Make new traditions – Being physically active with your friends and family is a great way to keep healthy and happy all year long – try a hike, bike ride, or walk as part of a holiday gathering.

5.    Eat breakfast – Trying to “save up” calories by skipping meals usually causes increased calorie consumption later in the day, so stick with your healthy breakfast and snacks.

6.    Don’t go to a party starving – Having a small healthy snack (like an apple) about an hour before a holiday party can help you make healthy decisions later.

7.    Remember produce – Fill half your plate with fruits and non-starchy vegetables throughout the holiday season, which can keep you satisfied on fewer calories.

8.    Give gifts of health – Instead of baskets of treats this holiday, giving healthy foods (fruits, produce, or nuts) or activities (classes, outings, or massage) which can bring healthful living to those around you.

9.    Be beverage wise – Calories in beverages add up quickly without filling you up, so focus on calorie-free beverages like water or tea.