The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and indulgence, but it can also challenge your ability to maintain healthy habits. With feasts at Thanksgiving, treats at family gatherings, and late-night New Year’s celebrations, it’s easy to let wellness take a backseat. However, with a little planning, you can enjoy the festivities while staying on track.
Here are five practical tips to help you maintain your health and well-being this holiday season.
- Mind Your Portions at Holiday Meals
Holiday meals are often loaded with calorie-dense dishes like mashed potatoes, casseroles, and desserts. One of the simplest ways to maintain balance is to practice portion control. Begin by filling your plate with vegetables and lean proteins, leaving smaller portions for heavier dishes like stuffing and pie. Eating slowly and savoring your food helps you recognize when you’re full, reducing the risk of overeating.
“Indulgent foods can be enjoyed responsibly by focusing on nutrient-dense options and balancing them with treats. For dessert, baked apples with cinnamon can satisfy your sweet tooth without overloading on sugar.” Gloria Cabral, RD, LDN, Registered Dietitian at Care Resource.
- Stay Active Amidst the Festivities
Amid the celebrations, staying active is crucial for balancing extra calories and reducing stress. Incorporate movement into your day with activities like post-dinner walks, family games of football, or dancing at holiday parties. Even small efforts, such as 20 minutes of activity daily, can improve your energy levels, mood, and overall well-being.
- Hydrate and Limit Sugary Drinks
Holiday beverages like eggnog, hot chocolate, and festive cocktails are delicious but often high in calories and sugar. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and reduce unnecessary calorie intake. You can also try lighter versions of holiday drinks, like almond milk-based eggnog or unsweetened herbal teas, to enjoy festive flavors without overindulgence.
- Practice Stress Management
The holidays, while joyous, often bring additional stress, from managing family commitments to completing holiday shopping. Stress can make it harder to stick to your health goals, so taking time for self-care is essential. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and simple self-care activities—whether it’s reading a book, taking a warm bath, or enjoying quiet time—can help you stay calm and focused.
- Prioritize Sleep
Between late-night celebrations and busy schedules, it’s easy to let sleep slide during the holidays. However, sleep is essential for your health, affecting your immune system, mood, and even weight. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. If you stay up late for a party, try to compensate with naps or earlier bedtimes on other days to keep your energy levels steady.
“The holiday season doesn’t have to derail your health goals. By practicing portion control, staying active, managing stress, hydrating properly, and prioritizing sleep, you can enjoy the season while maintaining your well-being. The holidays are about celebration, not deprivation. Listen to your body, stay mindful, and allow yourself to enjoy special moments while making healthier choices.” Gloria Cabral, RD, LDN, Registered Dietitian at Care Resource.
From all of us at Care Resource, we wish you a happy, healthy holiday season filled with joy and cherished memories!
About Care Resource
Care Resource, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), operates four locations in Midtown Miami, Little Havana, Miami Beach, and Fort Lauderdale. The health center delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care, including medical, behavioral, dental, housing, and STI prevention and testing services.
