3 Hacks To Stay Healthy This Holiday Season!

The holiday season is filled with joy, connection, and let’s be honest—a lot of food. From office parties to family gatherings, it can feel like temptation is everywhere. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose between enjoying the holidays and maintaining your health goals.

If you focus on just three simple things this December, you can avoid the dreaded holiday weight gain while still indulging in the moments that matter most. Let’s dive in!

1. Skip the Unnecessary Sweets

It seems like everywhere you turn in December, there’s a candy dish, a tray of cookies, or a plate of holiday desserts. But let’s be real—most of it isn’t even that great.

Here’s the trick:

• Save your indulgences for the truly special treats. Maybe it’s Grandma’s homemade pie or your favorite holiday cookies that only show up once a year.
• Say no to store-bought treats or that random chocolate you grabbed just because it was there. If it’s not amazing, it’s not worth it!

Ask yourself: Do I really want this, or am I eating it because it’s in front of me? By being selective, you can enjoy the treats that mean the most without overloading on sugar and calories.

2. Balance Your Plate with the 50/25/25 Rule

Holiday meals are a highlight of the season, but they can also be calorie bombs if you’re not mindful. That’s why I recommend using the 50/25/25 plate rule to enjoy your meal without overdoing it.

Here’s how it works:

• 50% of your plate: Load up on veggies like roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed green beans, or a fresh salad. These are high in fiber, low in calories, and super filling.
• 25% of your plate: Add lean protein like turkey, ham, chicken, or plant-based options. Protein will keep you satisfied and help balance out your meal.
• 25% of your plate: Reserve this for indulgent sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or that creamy casserole you’ve been eyeing.

This strategy lets you enjoy all your favorite dishes while keeping your meal balanced. And don’t forget to eat slowly and savor each bite—you might find you’re full before you even think about seconds!

3. Move Your Body Every Day

The holiday season can get busy, but staying active is essential for managing stress and keeping those extra calories in check. The best part? It doesn’t have to be complicated.

• Aim for 20-30 minutes a day. Go for a brisk walk in the morning, do a quick workout at home, or even dance to your favorite holiday music.
• Make movement a family affair—play an active game with your kids or take a stroll with loved ones after a meal.
• If you can’t fit in a full workout, don’t worry! Even a short walk or some gentle stretching counts. How about one of my FREE Mobility Videos? CLICK HERE to check them out.

Pro tip: Schedule your movement like an appointment. Add it to your calendar so you’re less likely to skip it, and remember that consistency is key!

The Bottom Line..

This December, focus on these three simple habits:

1. Skip the everyday sweets and save indulgences for what truly matters.
2. Balance your holiday meals with the 50/25/25 plate rule.
3. Move your body daily, even if it’s just a short walk.

By sticking to these strategies, you’ll feel healthier, more energized, and ready to start the New Year without the extra holiday weight. And the best part? You’ll still get to enjoy all the festive fun!

Here’s to a happy, healthy holiday season! 🎄✨