Because the holiday season is a time to celebrate, it can be easy to overindulge in food, drink, and desserts. While it’s natural to enjoy yourself and allow for some special treats, it’s also essential to do so in moderation. To help you out, here are some health care-minded tips for holiday eating.

How to Eat Healthier During the Holidays

1. Never Indulge on an Empty Stomach

You might think skipping breakfast and lunch on the day of a big holiday feast will help cut calories. However, if you come to a dinner party famished, you’re much more likely overeat.

Instead of fasting before you arrive, eat two well-balanced meals during the day and a healthy snack before you head out for the evening. Choose filling, protein-rich foods with complex carbohydrates and unsaturated fats, such as avocado on whole-wheat toast or apple slices with peanut or almond butter.

2. Drink Lots of Water

The holidays are a busy time, and it’s easy to forget to drink water when you have a packed schedule. But staying hydrated is essential for good health care. There’s also a chance you’ll eat even more if you’re dehydrated, as you may mistake thirst for hunger. Keep a bottle with you throughout the day, and drink water with meals and in between alcoholic beverages. 

3. Balance the Booze

Speaking of alcohol, remember that most alcoholic drinks—especially festive cocktails such as eggnog and hot buttered rum—are packed with calories. If you’re not careful, you can end up consuming a meal’s worth of calories before sitting down to dinner.

In addition to drinking a glass of water in between drinks, be mindful of how many cocktails you consume. Also, opt for drinks with less fattening mixers such as cranberry juice or diet soda. If you like champagne, you’re in luck—at just 120 calories per flute, it’s one of the most forgiving holiday drink options out there.

In addition to mindful holiday eating, keep up with your health care at Fairbanks Clinic, Inc. in Alaska. Since 1932, the practice has provided comprehensive health care services to both children and adults. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and call (907) 452-1761 to schedule an appointment today.