Overcome these 3 holiday eating challenges
Laura Burkett
| 3 min read
Holiday eating needs a makeover. The increase in refined sugars and carbohydrates can feel tricky, but isn’t necessarily the problem; it’s the collective ways of thinking we unconsciously fall into.
“Eating well around the holidays is challenging.”
“I might as well eat whatever I want. I’m planning on a New Years cleanse anyway.”
“I’m just too busy to workout.”
Rather than create a list of strategies to control one’s appetite or a list of higher quality ingredients to swap in recipes, I am going to share three “morsels for thought” to help you navigate holiday eating with a little more ease. They don’t require extra time at the gym or eating meals with your non-dominant hand.
These common sticky points at this time of year are: holiday parties, busy schedules, and last supper syndrome.
1.) Getting overwhelmed with the holiday food table
First of all, remember why you’re at the party. Did you attend the party specifically for the food or are you there to re-connect with friends and family? I encourage clients to ask themselves, “how would I like to see this go?” before heading into the party. It usually sounds something like this, “I want to go enjoy a conversation with X and Y, have a taste of a couple things that look appealing, and head out when I feel ready to go.” Some stay at parties longer than they’d actually like, get tired and end up picking at food much of the evening. Give yourself permission to create an ideal visit, or mini escape routes (like stepping outside or running an errand for the family) to catch your breath if you have an extended stay.
2.) Letting go of simple daily rhythm
I do understand that the holidays are full of hustle and bustle. Often in the midst of this, people let go of basic self-care. If there is ever a time to be disciplined about daily rhythm, it’s the holidays. If I had to give you some non-negotiables, they would include eating a balanced (protein/fat/carb) breakfast and lunch every single day, without exceptions, and sticking to a reliable sleep schedule. This can keep your immune system supported and your blood sugar steady so you aren’t ravenous around holiday treats and can therefore use discernment.
3.) Assuming you’ll detox/cleanse/diet come January
Assume nothing. In fact, play with the idea of NOT cleansing, detoxing, dieting or starting a new program in January. What would that mean for you now? Most likely, you’d be more aware of what you are eating now, choosing only the things you really enjoy. You’d probably still be moving your body as well. And you’d certainly feel MUCH less overwhelmed in January. No New Years diet resolution?
I encourage you to take it easy and enjoy yourself. Eat too much some days. Have some greens the next. Get out of your head and into your body. What foods delight you? What could you take or leave?
Wishing you a happy, healthy and empowered remainder of the holiday season!
You can find Laura at www.realfoodwellness.com.
