Holiday Eating: A Balancing Act

Most years we all have that thought of, gosh I’m doing so well right now but how can I survive the holidays?  We should be thinking how and I going to incorporate a few holiday delights. 

Let’s tackle the biggest troubler first…. Grandma’s Christmas cookies.  Allow yourself two cookies, that way you don’t feel like “you’re on a diet have to pick only one cookie out of the 10 flavored variety pack.

When attending an appetizers and hors d’oeuvres party, bring a veggie tray so you can fill up on veggies and dip versus chips and dip or meat and cheese platters.  Of course you can still have those other items, but shoot for filling up plate number one with veggies, wait awhile, then if you’re still hungry go for plate number two with a few higher calorie snacks. Obviously, moderation is the key here but you also want to enjoy your holiday and not feel bad about what you’re eating. 

Before the main meal comes around at family gatherings, it is highly suggested that you fill up on a small salad first.  As most of you know, we try to sneak in a few extra vegetables here and there at Hilton Head Health.  This is a good routine as you will start putting less on your plate once you get to the entrée.  If you’re in charge of Christmas dinner, try offering leaner meats, healthier sides and more fresh vegetables.  Peas and corn do not count here; bring on the grilled asparagus or roasted brussels sprouts.  I understand it’s the holidays and it may be one time a year we get to celebrate a few family traditions so if that’s the case, stick to your tradition and just use the side salad as a filler-upper!

Most of all, try to enjoy your holiday celebrations by still enjoy the things you love—just include moderation into that equation along with some healthier starters before each meal.  Exercise is always encouraged but my department is all about the food!  So if you’re still trying to decide what to bring to a holiday party, start thinking about surrounding yourself with safe foods that you really like and will give you a healthy option to eat when attending a party outside your own home!

Cheers! Chef Jen

H3 Daily to the Holiday Rescue!

Yesterday’s Holiday Survival Guide blog gave you tips on how to maintain your sanity, and weight, but I thought I would point out just a few items on this very website that may be of extra help during the holidays.  Check them out…and pass them on to your friends and family!

• Pressed for time during the holidays?  Fulfill your cardio and strength training requirements at once with our Quick and Easy: Full Body 30 Minute Routine!


• Traveling or simply don’t have access to a gym?  No excuses with our No Equipment Required: Travel Routine.  You can do this workout anywhere – on the go or even in your own home!


• Organize and prioritize your time with our Daily and Weekly Task Manager journals.  Schedule in a workout, as well as time to de-stress with a fun or relaxing activity!


• R-E-L-A-X and take a quick break from the everyday pressures and chaos with a few relaxation techniques. 


• Enjoy your favorite recipes with healthy alternatives.  Check back later this week for a Holiday Recipe special – including a Southern favorite – Pecan Pie!


• Set H3 Daily as your homepage so that every time you log-on to check your email – you will have a daily nutrition article, stress tip, recipe or fitness routine waiting for you!


• If all else fails, remember you can email or call our program staff at ANY TIME!  We are here to help!