So labor day is coming up. Whether you are spending it indoors or going out to a bbq with some close friends or families committing to your healthy eating habits can be harder than expected.
It’s not easy to make conscious eating habits when there are so many options to choose from. As someone who is working towards a fitness goal where what I eat and drink is always something to consider I have developed some tips and tricks that help with eating healthy on holidays such as labor day.
I want to just say that I do not condone restrictive behavior because not eating food because someone in the world was like “bad” or good” is annoying and unfair. I believe everything is okay in moderation. So these are just tips I use to eat *relatively* healthy during the holidays to make sure that after the fact my body and mind are happy and healthy.
Mentally Prepare For The Food
I bet you think this is a little weird but bear with me. The idea of thinking about what you are going to eat and drink during a holiday or party can be important in your overall feelings about what you eat during and after the event. Eating healthy is not only about the psychical act of eating but also about the mental aspect of it too. If you arent prepared to potentially, even if it is not intentional, eat more than you usually do. There can be mass feelings of guilt or feelings of out of control when going to a party because you don’t know how to get back on track. Remember, that it is going to be okay and that you are able to and deserve to enjoy the moment. Just do the best you can.
Add Vegetables Or Fruit To Your Plate
I think the conscious choice to put some type of vegetable or fruit on your plate can be a great first step in getting in some type of produce during your outing. Not only are you giving your body the fibers it needs to break down and utilize the other foods you’ve eaten but now you have your daily intake. Personally, I believe that just by adding some color to your plate you are already creating a healthier meal. In the clinic, I work at and the programs I work on at my job as a program coordinator that works on creating healthy eating habits. This is always the first step and honestly, tip doctors tell their families. Just one choice is all it takes and It can also help with the general feeling of healthiness after the event. Consuming fruits and vegetables is probably the hardest thing to unconsciously do at a party. I found through my own experience I simulate a normal meal for me. So try this out and also let me know what kind of produce you added to your plate
Drink water
I know you’re probably like “Duh Dom”. Of course drink water. But, if you really think about it, how often do you drink water during a holiday party event? It is not constant. If you have water in between getting other drinks your less likely to consume high amounts of sugary beverages. The one thing my nutritionist told me and something that is constantly being reiterated in my work in community health is the effect of sugary beverages and health. They are empty calories and in a weird way highly addictive. By cutting down your sugary beverage intake with drinking water in place of or in between grabbing another sugary beverage then you can reduce that sluggish and overfull feeling. Even if your goal is to get drunk, still drink water save that liver fam.
Try and be active
I don’t mean for you to go and run or do a HITT workout after you eat. That’s so extra. This just means maybe getting up and dancing, if you feel like dancing and want to move around, socialize with friends or family (at a safe distance), play games, or even just walking around. By moving around you can activate your metabolism. HOWEVER, if you don’t want to then don’t, it’s never that serious and honestly only fun if you truly want to get up and move.
Personally, I am all for eating whatever makes you feel happy, I believe there is liberation in eating the foods that you actually want to eat and crushing this idea of restriction or labeling food bad or good. When it comes to fueling your body and giving your body needs learning how to make healthier decisions in tougher environments can be beneficial on your health journey. So have fun, enjoy, and stay safe.
Signing off,
Domonique
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