the secret of change is to focus all your energy not on fighting the old but on building the new
I know the holidays can be tough for anyone trying to continue with their healthy eating plan. But, I’ll tell you this… it is possible to successfully navigate the holidays without indulging in the pumpkin pie or candy canes – and without offending anyone for refusing their food. Here are my best tips for sticking with a low calorie density eating plan during the holiday season:
- Eat before you go out! When in doubt – ‘pre-eat’ at home. This is especially important if you’re going to a new restaurant or to someone’s home that you’ve never been to before. It’s not fun to show up to a dinner to find out that nothing the host has made is compliant with your way of eating. You’ll end up eating food that is off plan or being hungry. Bring a banana and an apple with you in your bag just in case.
- Let the host of any holiday dinners you may attend know that you are eating this way and offer to bring a dish. Make sure it’s filling (potatoes!) so that if there’s nothing else, you can eat a big serving of what you brought.
- Don’t get into heated debates about your diet with family members or friends. This can ruin an otherwise lovely get-together.
- If you ‘mess up’ by eating an oily, salty, sugary dessert – don’t throw in the towel! It’s just one time and doesn’t need to completely derail your healthy eating plan. Start again tomorrow with a healthy breakfast like oatmeals, frozen blueberries, cinnamon, and a bit of stevia for sweetness. Don’t try to be perfect – focus on the meal in front of you and make the best choice you can at that moment. Start again. and again. and again. As many times as you have to. Be kind and gentle with yourself. I’m proud of you!
Love always,
Melissa
