Healthy Eating During the Holidays: It Can Be Done!

Between big family gatherings and parties for your kids, the holidays seem to bring a deluge of indulgences. It can feel difficult for family members of any age to stick with a healthy diet without feeling deprived. But holiday eating can be enjoyable without being high-calorie.

“The biggest misconception I come across this time of year is that it’s impossible to stick with a healthy diet during the holidays,” says Roxanne Davis, RD, LD, MPH, CSNC, clinical nutrition manager at Beaufort Memorial. “People who are trying to stay healthy over the holidays worry they won’t be able to eat the foods they enjoy.”

By making mindful choices, healthy holiday eating can become second nature for your family.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Healthy Holiday Eating

DON’T go to events hungry. Serve yourself and your kids a healthy snack before you go to a party or family gathering. That way, you will be less tempted to overeat.

DO let kids have a few of their favorites. “I’m a big believer in moderation,” Davis says. “It can feel overwhelming to be surrounded by foods you think you can’t have.”

Let your kids have one or two treats, and make sure they balance them with healthy options. Do the same for yourself.

Read More: 8 Ways to Handle Social Pressure During the Holidays

DON’T just sit there. While this tip is not exactly about healthy holiday eating, diet and exercise go together like cookies and Santa Claus. Take a walk with the family after a holiday meal or send the kids outside to play tag while the adults clean up the kitchen.

DO make food fun. “Finding creative recipes and cooking together can be an enjoyable bonding experience,” Davis says. “Getting the family involved with meal and snack preparations is also a great way to teach kids about nutrition.”

DON’T make food the focus. “Food adds to the holiday joy, but it’s not the only source of joy,” Davis says. “The main source of pleasure is being with friends and family.”

If you would like to learn more about healthy eating before, during and after the holidays, please contact a Beaufort Memorial dietitian at 843-522-5084.