6 tips to practice healthy behavior during the holidays

The holiday season, with its social gatherings and excessive amounts of baked goods, is the toughest time of year to indulge with moderation, Fox News reports.

You can't totally avoid temptation during the holiday season, but you can avoid weight gain and unhealthy eating by mentally preparing yourself. These simple tips can get you started.

Always plan ahead. If you’re attending an event, make sure to eat a high-protein snack before you get there. Making objective choices about what you’re eating is easier when you’re not starving. If you’re hosting an event, take some time to search for healthier alternatives to typical holiday foods.

Don’t drink your calories. Drink lots of water to stay well hydrated and avoid holiday cocktails that are made with heavy cream, sweetened juices or sour mixes. Instead, sip a glass of red wine or opt for clear alcohols with club soda and a splash of lime, and have a glass of water between each drink.

Focus on the holidays, not the food. The holidays are really about spending time with the people we love, creating memories and celebrating traditions. Find different things to do with your loved ones that don’t revolve around food. Stay active together, try a new exercise class together, go ice-skating, or even take a painting class to create memories revolving around the fun you had instead of what you ate.

Avoid emotional eating. Along with food, the holidays can also bring extra stress, and turning to food for comfort is easy.  No matter how busy you are make sure to take at least 30 minutes for yourself every day. Go for a walk, meditate, read a book or write in a journal; do anything you enjoy.

Make exercise a priority. Don’t skip your morning workout because you overindulged the night before. Instead use it as motivation to get you out of bed and give your workout everything you’ve got.

Get plenty of sleep. Unfortunately, not getting enough sleep can have a significant impact on your health; sleep deprivation can contribute to weight gain, cause brain fog and lower immunity. 

Focus on your goals this holiday season and remind yourself why you made a commitment to stay healthy.

Follow NEWS.am Medicine on Facebook and Twitter