Essential Nutrition Tips for the Holidays
Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Diet During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a time for celebration and gathering with loved ones, often centered around delicious food and drinks. However, it’s important to be mindful of your health during this time, especially for individuals with certain health conditions like cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and hypertension.
Dietitian Funda Bilginer offers some helpful tips for enjoying the holiday season while still prioritizing your health. She suggests starting the day with a light breakfast and choosing dishes that are cooked using healthy methods. Limiting portion sizes and opting for milk-based desserts instead of sugary treats can also help in maintaining a balanced diet.
When it comes to family meals, Bilginer recommends including a variety of foods on your plate, such as salads, vegetables, protein, and whole grains. For meat consumption, she advises choosing lean cuts and opting for cooking methods like grilling, steaming, or boiling instead of frying.
It’s also important to stay hydrated during the holiday season, especially in hot weather. Bilginer suggests avoiding sugary drinks and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake. Instead, opt for buttermilk, natural fruit juices, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
While indulging in desserts and treats is a common part of the holiday season, Bilginer recommends moderation and choosing healthier options like milk desserts, ice cream, and fruits instead of overly sugary treats. If you find yourself overindulging, she suggests implementing portion control and lighter meals in the following days, along with incorporating regular exercise like walking.
By following these tips from Funda Bilginer, you can enjoy the holiday season while still taking care of your health. Remember to listen to your body and make mindful choices when it comes to food and drink during this festive time.
