8 Uncommon Tips to Stay Healthy Through the Holidays
Ah, Christmas—the season of joy, presents, and second (or third) helpings of every delicious thing imaginable. While it’s tempting to embrace the holiday motto of “calories don’t count in December,” your body might beg to differ. But don't worry, staying healthy doesn’t mean skipping the stuffing or snubbing the eggnog. You just need a few sneaky (and fun) strategies to balance festive indulgence with a little TLC for your health.
Here are five unconventional tips to help you survive the season of feasting without regret:
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Start with a Protein-Packed "Pre-Feast" Smoothie
Before you dive into the endless buffet of buttery mashed potatoes and stuffing, make yourself a festive smoothie. Yes, we’re talking about blending up a handful of spinach (shh, you won’t taste it), frozen berries, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a spoonful of almond butter. This holiday superhero smoothie will give you a solid dose of fiber, protein, and healthy fats to curb your hunger and help prevent you from going overboard. Plus, you'll feel like a health wizard, and who doesn't want that? -
Play Hide-and-Seek with Veggies (But Make It Fun)
Forget boring side salads—start sneaking vegetables into your favorite holiday dishes. Think carrot purée in mashed potatoes, grated zucchini in your muffins, or roasted butternut squash in your mac and cheese. This isn’t about eating less; it’s about giving your body secret weapons to combat all that sugary goodness. Bonus points if you turn it into a game: challenge yourself or your family to find the hidden veggie in the meal! -
Do the “Plank Before Pie” Ritual
Before diving into dessert, drop to the floor and do a 30-second plank (or squats if you’re in a skirt). This not only gets your blood flowing but also makes you pause before you dive headfirst into that third slice of cheesecake. It’s just silly enough to turn into a fun family tradition, plus your core will thank you when January rolls around. -
“Fancy Up” Your Drinks
Instead of guzzling sugar-laden punches and cocktails, make hydration chic! Infuse water with fresh cranberries, orange slices, and rosemary for a festive vibe, and sip it in your fanciest glass. Not only will you stay hydrated, but you’ll also pace yourself on those holiday cocktails. Plus, let’s be real—hydration is the unsung hero of all festive miracles. -
Embrace the Art of the Tiny Plate Buffet
Why commit to a giant plate when you can sample everything like a sophisticated food critic? Use smaller plates (or even bowls) and curate your Christmas feast like you’re building the world’s most festive charcuterie board. This way, you’ll savor the flavors without overloading your belly. Pro tip: Treat dessert the same way—tiny slices of three pies are far more satisfying than one heaping slab. -
Practice Mindful Eating with a “Pause” Between Courses
One of the simplest ways to balance the Christmas feast with nutrition is by eating mindfully. Try the “pause method”: after each course, take a moment to stop, breathe, and assess how you’re feeling. Are you satisfied? Full? Just craving more because the food is delicious? This practice helps you avoid overeating, gives your body time to signal when it's full, and helps you savor every bite. Plus, it allows you to focus on the conversation and connection rather than just the food. -
Sprinkle Spices (Not Just Sugar) on Your Feast
You know how cinnamon makes your coffee taste like a holiday miracle? Imagine what cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and cloves can do for your entire meal. These festive spices aren’t just for cookies—they’re loaded with anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. Turmeric, for example, helps reduce inflammation (goodbye, bloating!), while cinnamon stabilizes your blood sugar. So, go ahead and sprinkle those spices on your veggies, stews, or even your mashed potatoes for a little extra nutritional magic! -
Turn Socializing into Your Secret Workout
You’re going to mingle anyway—so make it movement-friendly! Challenge your cousins to a post-dinner dance-off, organize a goofy scavenger hunt, or simply offer to help clean up (extra calorie burn!). Staying active doesn’t have to mean skipping the fun; it is the fun. And trust me, a turkey-induced nap feels way better after a kitchen dance battle.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are all about joy, togetherness, and, yes, eating incredible food. These tips aren’t about deprivation; they’re about balance—with a side of laughter and creativity. So go ahead and indulge, plank, sneak your veggies, and dance your way through Christmas. Your body—and your holiday memories—will thank you!
What’s your favorite holiday indulgence? Let’s swap tips and recipes on Instagram and TikTok #MadeWithDilettoso
