Eating healthy during the holidays can be a big challenge, but your mindset can determine your success.
April Fuegen, a dietician at Mercy Medical Center in Clinton, says to focus on family and friends, not just food during this month of parties and feasts. Fuegen says to set realistic goals for yourself.
“Maybe you’re someone who will just get frustrated or stressed by trying to do something you’re not necessarily 100% into,” Fuegen says. “If you’re someone who doesn’t want to make any changes during the holiday season or look for healthier choices, recognize that, but make sure you also get back on track after your holiday meals.”
Fuegen says when you go to a family event or an office party, survey the buffet before digging in. “Plan your attack on what things you’re most excited about having,” she says, “and if you’re going to be making healthier choices, what can you pick out from that buffet, as far as what’s all laid out in front of you, that would be a little bit healthier?” When going to a pot-luck, make an effort to bring healthy food to share and seek the support of your friends and family for healthy choices.
“Think color as far as fruits and vegetables, not the Skittles and M&Ms,” Fuegen says. “Having good quality vitamins and minerals and get as much high-fiber food as possible because that’ll help fill you up. When you go up to the buffet line, choose the healthier foods first and maybe that’ll fill you up faster.”
She also suggests you consider volunteering during the holidays as another way to focus on activities other than eating.
(By Dave Vickers, KROS, Clinton)