The holiday season is almost here and we’re all looking forward to spending time with loved ones and sampling the holiday treats. If your health is a top priority for you, you may be concerned about gaining weight when faced with those irresistible holiday treats.
In addition to the challenge of trying to resist those tasty treats, there is the challenge of not offending your mother or grandmother by not eating her holidays’ spread. It can seem simply impossible to avoid the holiday bulge.
The holiday season is about celebrating and being together with family. It doesn’t have to be about overindulging. You can have a great holiday and enjoy the treats that come along without gaining weight by applying some of the following tips:

1. Eat and drink before the ‘big meal’

It’s not uncommon for people to ‘save their appetite’ for the big holiday meal. You may skip breakfast and not eat until midday in an attempt to avoid eating too much. However, the opposite is true. You will end up eating much more than you normally would because you will be starving by meal time.
Eat a healthy protein packed breakfast as you normally would. This will keep you full for longer and curb the urge to overindulge when the holiday spread is before you.

1. Go for the protein

Proteins have lower calories and will keep you fuller for longer. When you dig into the holiday spread, dig in with the plan to go heavy on the proteins. Serve yourself a larger portion of turkey, chicken, beans, lentils or other source of protein on the table before you serve anything else. 

1. Bring something healthy

Be the perfect guest by contributing to the meal. You can add your own healthy touch by bringing a healthy desert or side dish. This will help to ensure that you have a healthy alternative on the table. You may even inspire others to start a healthy eating routine.

1. Take your time

Holiday meals are a great time to catch up on family news. Take the time to enjoy your family’s company and eat slowly. Chew your food slowly while listening or contributing to the conversation instead of gulping down your meal. It takes at least 20 minutes for the brain to register the feeling of satisfaction. Eating slowly gives your brain time to catch up and it helps you avoid overindulging.

1. Go for fiber

Eating more fiber will also help you feel fuller for longer. Fill up on vegetables such as carrots and salads to help you feel full while avoiding the intake of too many calories.
Enjoy your holiday meals without the fear of gaining weight. The tips above will help you indulge without overdoing it.