submitted by Saman Shaikh, RD., M.Sc.
Registered Dietitian and Public Health Nutritionist
Here are some tips for healthy eating during the holidays.
- Make and enjoy healthy food choices during the holidays using foods from the Canada’s Food Guide, such as vegetables and fruit, whole grains, and protein foods. Choose options that are lower in added sugar, salt, and saturated fat.
- Take the space and time to eat and pay attention to your food without distractions. Be in tune with your body’s hunger and fullness signals, and make food choices based on your hunger level.
- Eat until you are satisfied but not uncomfortably stuffed. Decline politely but assertively if you’re offered more food than you can handle.
- Don’t skip meals in anticipation of a big holiday meal. Even if you’re going to have a special dinner, it is still important to have regular meals and snacks for the rest of the day. Going too long without eating can make you feel unwell, and when you do finally eat, being too hungry may make it difficult to eat mindfully and you may end up overeating.
- The holiday season only comes once a year, and part of the joy of the holidays is eating and drinking the foods and drinks you enjoy. Some holiday foods and drinks may also serve a cultural or traditional purpose. Don’t deprive yourself of your favourite foods. Eat and drink what you like without judgment, keep portions sensible, and take the time to savour your choices.
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