Hendrick Health offers tips for healthy holiday eating

During the season of giving, a valuable gift for yourself is grace when it comes to holiday eating.

Holiday parties often include appetizers, entrees, desserts and other delectables – many not usually served any other time of year. Enjoying the gatherings and following a healthy dietary lifestyle do not have to be mutually exclusive. For a balanced approach to healthy eating during the festive season, consider the following tips:

• Be mindful of what you’re putting into your body. Holiday meals usually have an abundant selection of foods. The popular grazing tables may seem like a less filling meal than a traditional plate, but multiple nibbles of shaved meats, gourmet cheeses, olives, nuts, fruits, spreads and other goodies can quickly add up to a high calorie meal.
• Allow yourself to sample favorite foods. Tasting foods you love is one of the enjoyments of the eating experience. The key is to keep portions small, especially if there are many options.
• Avoid overeating. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, and eat slowly because it takes time for your body to send those fullness signals.
• Plan healthy options. If hosting a holiday event, include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nutritious proteins. Focus first on those nutritious choices when selecting foods at parties away from home.

The holidays may seem like a marathon of tempting foods, but don’t let an indulgent meal turn into a cheat day. The risk is that a cheat day then stretches into a cheat week. Remembering your why for embarking on a healthier lifestyle will help you get right back to your nutritious meal plan.