The holidays can be a hectic time of year. When you find your self in a busy with shopping, planning for parties, and wrapping gifts, something has to give. Health and nutrition goals are often the first to go. Here are five tips to help you strive for balance this holiday season:
- Don’t give up on exercise. It’s easy to say, “I’ll do it tomorrow” or “one day won’t matter”. But tomorrow turns into the next day, and one day turns into a week. When you find yourself missing a day or two, reevaluate your schedule and make exercise a priority. To find out how much exercise you need each week, click here.
- Drink plenty of water. When it comes to water, it is best to let thirst be your guide. You have probably heard the 8 glasses a day recommendation. Every one’s needs are different and eight glasses may or may not be enough, so listen to your body. Opt for water most of the time. For more tips on making better beverage choices, click here
- Plan meals ahead of time. Making healthy choices while eating on the go can be tricky. With a solid meal plan in place, you are more likely to prepare and enjoy meals at home. Plan your home cooked meals to be healthy and simple to balance out your holiday splurges.
- Keep grab and go snacks handy. Half the battle with healthy eating is having something quick and easy in your reach. If you plan to have healthy options all around you, you have the opportunity to make the healthy choice. Keep a stash at home in the refrigerator and pantry, in your purse or diaper bag, in your desk at work, and in your car.
- Limit your splurges to once a week. During the holiday season, there is a celebration around every corner. Enjoy yourself, but limit your splurges to once a week. If your week is packed with family celebrations, a night out with friends, and a potluck at work, choose which one will be your splurge. Still join in the fun at events, but eat something healthy at home before you go, or fill your plate with healthy options while you are there.
Keep these tips in mind now through the new year and you’ll find 2019 off to a healthy start! If you need to make something quick and healthy, try Ham and Pineapple Kabobs.
Not only is it a healthy recipe, but it will help you use up leftover ham that is common this time of year. If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, whip up a batch of your own.
Serve the kabobs with a side of brown rice and a class of low-fat milk to make it a MyPlate meal. Enjoy!
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