WICHITA FALLS (KFDX / KJTL) – Before you reach for that second piece of Christmas cake, think about it: Nutritionists say the average person gains a little more than a pound over the holidays, which doesn’t sound like much. But this over-indulgence could put a strain on your body, especially your digestive system.
When in doubt, bring color to your plate and slurp smarter. These are just two ways everyone can enjoy a balanced, healthy diet during the festivities ahead.
“A lot of people get excited about the holidays and just think about food,” said Trista Eason, owner of Flex Appeal.
More strumming, less strumming, but how do you manage that with so many warm holiday dishes on the dining room table? Eason believes it’s all about moderation.
“Yes, it’s okay to enjoy Christmas dinner,” said Eason. “It happens once a year; you’re looking forward to your grandmother’s cake. ”
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Flex Appeal Team member and nutritionist Chase Wolf said if you enjoy these favorites, try filling up with the goodies – like vegetables – too.
“We recommend a handful of protein, a cup of carbohydrate, a handful of vegetables, a thumb full of fat with every meal for women,” said Wolf. “It’s one of those things where, wherever you go, you always have your hands with you so you can assess, ‘Can I have a balanced meal?”
After you finish eating, there is no need to just sit around.
“What you want to do is not graze all day,” said Eason. “Set up the food when you have finished eating; Make sure you are still eating regular meals – breakfast, lunch, dinner, just going outside and playing between meals. ”
It can also be helpful to do these things, like going for a walk with the family, or just taking a break when you feel full.
“Knowing when you are full, make sure you have water throughout the day, a handful of protein with every meal, try to focus on eating some vegetables because just because it’s a holiday means that not that we have to neglect other areas of our health, ”said Wolf.
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“And the weather is going to be great this weekend so going outside and playing will be really good for your health and it will help you stop feeling so bloated and gross and have more room to eat later create, “said Eason.
Eating healthy for the holidays can be a challenge, but Eason and Wolf want everyone to know that it doesn’t have to mean skipping the goodies you love. Plus, drinking doesn’t always bring the Christmas cheer, so be moderate there too.
When it comes to drinking a cocktail, nutritionists recommend reaching for clear spirits like vodka and gin, as these tend to be lower in calories.
