When it comes to eating well, having a plan for special events is key, here are some tips!
Bring something that you benefit from eating to share with others…a great way to enjoy social eating without social pressure to eat something that your body does benefit from. Something simple that doesn’t require host’s energy is best. Veggie platter, shrimp cocktail, fruit platter, cheese & preservative free meet platter, salad with protein or a healthier version of one of your holiday favorites. Choose something that replaces your challenges whether they are appetizers or desserts.
Have plenty of healthy snacks on hand. Choose something nourishing before going to the party. This way you won’t be really hungry and faced with only treats to choose from.
If you are following any elimination remind yourself of the list of foods you can choose to feel good about choosing before being faced with an abundance of food “stressors”. Think vegetables and animal protein, nuts, seeds as first choices.
If/when you choose something sweet…savor it! Eat slowly, mindfully and really enjoy it! Know if you choose something sweet you will likely experience craving for another…it’s so much easier to resist when you know it’s coming. What will you eat next? Planning your next meal or choice makes it easier to follow through when you experience food cravings.
Plate your food…aim for mostly vegetables, some protein, some fat. Enjoy!
Please eat breakfast. Making sure you get protein, healthy fats and water in on big days will help keep the cravings down and help with even energy and less irritability.
Practice portion control. Enjoying a small amount of a treat is a win! You might also share it.
Find time to be active; before the gathering or build it into the gathering, after the meal/before dessert, please
Set your judgement aside. Be gentle. Choose well and celebrate your good choices!
Enjoy and Be Well.