Whether its plates of tempting cookies, nonstop parties, or all the extra demands on your time, the holidays can derail anyone’s best attempts at healthy living. But don’t just give up and reach for the eggnog, or think you have to say “bah humbug” to holiday fun. With a little planning, you can be healthy and enjoy the season.

We’ve got some tips to help you keep your healthy habits on track over the holidays.

• Try extra hard to get enough sleep. If you’re overtired, you’re more likely to skip workouts and eat poorly.
• If you’re traveling for the holidays, find out if there are parks or trails near your destination where you can walk or run. If you’re at a hotel, the front desk may be able to help; local running stores or bike shops are also good sources of information.
• If you’re visiting with family, try to organize a group activity, like a long walk around the neighborhood to look at holiday decorations. If your family members aren’t interested, ask if they’d mind if you spent a little time away from them exercising, then enjoy your guilt-free solo workout.
• Going to a holiday potluck? Take a healthy dish, so you’ll be sure to have at least one good food option.
• Never go to a holiday party feeling ravenous. Instead eat a healthy snack beforehand, so starvation won’t force you to overindulge.
• At buffets, check out the whole spread before grabbing a plate. You’ll be able to pinpoint a few dishes you really want, instead of piling on everything. And take a small-size plate instead of a dinner plate, so you’re even less likely to overdo it.
• If you’re standing near tempting platters at a holiday event, hold a drink in your favored hand (meaning your right if you’re right handed), to help keep yourself from grabbing every goody within reach.
• Go ahead and enjoy a favorite holiday dessert. Just watch your portion size and take a small sliver of pecan pie, or split that piece of cheesecake with a friend.
• Beware of the punchbowl – holiday drinks like eggnog and punch may contain a lot more alcohol than you think. Find out what’s in them, so you can enjoy them in moderation.
• Alternate high-calorie alcoholic drinks with water or seltzer. Of course, if you’re driving, stay away from alcohol altogether.

Labels: Health