5 Ways to Eat Healthy During Holidays – Tips for Seniors

Holidays are all about family, friends, great food and great memories. It is also that time of the year when people usually gain weight. It’s often seen that during holidays one doesn’t stick to their regular exercise regimen and easy access to sumptuous treats can make them snack unnecessarily. However, this doesn’t have to be like this always. As one of the leading senior living communities,  we share with you 5 tips to eat healthy throughout the holiday season without giving up on your holiday favourites:

• Have caffeine in moderation:
  When you are with friends and family, there are multiple rounds of tea and coffee. While both tea and coffee are known for increasing alertness, when consumed in copious amounts they can cause nervousness, anxiety, and digestive troubles. Limiting caffeine intake will help you sleep better and feel less anxious and jittery. Not just that, reducing caffeine also keeps you energised.
• Increase fibre intake:
  During the holiday season, often fibre intake takes a backseat in your dietary diligence. With cookies and other goodies easily available, people tend to make food choices that are high in sugar and low in fibre. It is important, however, to consciously include high-fibre foods at every meal. Fill at least half the plate with high-fibre vegetables and fruits. One easy way to add more fibre to your diet is to have high-fibre breakfast and eat salad before every meal.
• Keep yourself hydrated:
  When it comes to avoiding weight gain associated with the holiday season, the typical mindset is to increase workouts and cut calories. But what many people do not realise is that drinking water can help you address problems like weight gain and digestive issues. It is good to kick-start your body’s metabolic process in the morning by drinking a glass of water.
• Eat mindfully:
  To prevent festive season binge eating, you must opt for healthy food choices and eat mindfully. When you fill your plate, fill it with the food you love but in small portions. Notice the colours, taste and textures. Savour every bite. Eating slowly will stop you from overeating. Before heading to a party, have a high-protein snack to curb hunger pangs.
• Limit alcohol:
  Alcohol makes you eat more, besides increasing your risk of liver, heart, brain and stomach damage. It is advisable to set a limit and stick to it. Have a friend or a partner to keep yourself accountable. Eat before drinking so that you don’t end up drinking too much. Engage yourself in conversations instead of sitting and drinking.