The Holidays bring joy, sharing, love, get-togethers... and great food! There's no point stressing about overeating, which is almost inevitable. The solution is to know how to enjoy delicious culinary traditions in a satisfying way without wallowing in guilt!
We asked the Bonjour-santé nutritionists-dietitians to give us a few tips to help us control overeating during the festive season.
Are you a fan of "I'm not going to eat during the day because I'm having a big dinner tonight?
Big mistake. Finding yourself ravenous in front of platters of appetisers or a table full of tempting dishes will have you eating faster and more to fill the void. The result? You'll end up consuming more food than if you'd eaten during the day.
So eat healthily during the day based on your appetite. Having a snack 1 or 2 hours before mealtime is also an excellent idea, so you don't end up hungry (or hangry!). For example: greek yogurt + fruit or raw vegetables + a few nuts or a piece of cheese + whole-grain crackers.
Many appetisers are high in calories (mini quiches, filled rolls, puff pastry or fried food). Have a few, but don't forget that you have a meal coming up. Focus on raw vegetables with a little dip and vegetable and fruit-based bites.
Fruit juices, fizzy drinks and alcohol often flow freely during get-togethers. Unconsciously, we're adding up the calories at lightning speed!
Remember to drink slowly and alternate your sweetened or alcoholic drinks with water or sparkling water, which you can garnish with a few fruits and herbs such as mint, basil or thyme.
There's nothing better than serving yourself. Look at everything there is to eat before filling your plate to make good choices avoid ending up with a plate that's too full, and make plenty of room for vegetables! The same strategy applies to dessert!
By allowing the feeling of satiety to settle in - which occurs about 20 minutes after beginning a meal - you'll eat less as long as you know how to listen to your signals. No longer hungry? You certainly don't have to empty your plate! This is the time to stop eating and still enjoy the evening.
Stress and lack of sleep increase your appetite. Take advantage of some downtime to rest and do relaxing activities with your loved ones.
Skating, sledding, skiing, walking....seize every chance you get to get some fresh air and recharge your batteries!
Above all, don't spoil your Holiday season by feeling guilty about the food you eat. It's important to stay mindful without becoming obsessed. Family, friends, reunions and office parties, make sure you enjoy what matters most: spending quality time with those around you. Consult Mag-santé : The Bonjour-santé magazine for more nutritional advice.
Remember that with the Bonjour-santé membership, members have access to exceptional services with dietitians-nutritionists. Login to your account to take advantage of this service and many other health services, or become a member.
Happy Holidays!
