The holiday season is upon us, and it is time for gatherings with friends, family, and good food!
It is also the season to indulge but if you are not careful it can lead to weight gain and unhealthy eating habits.
So how can you enjoy the holiday season without sacrificing your health? Here are a few tips:
Tip #1 Keep Sugar and Calories Low When Ordering Coffee
When you're at a restaurant or coffee shop, do not be afraid to ask for sugar-free options, and skim milk. Most places have a variety of sugar-free syrups and sweeteners available (Ask the Barista!). Choosing this option will cut down on overall sugar and calories in your drink. Another idea is to bring any SweetLeaf® Sweet Drops® in your purse or bag so that when you are on the go you can add your own sweetener. If you love holiday flavors, (like we do!) try adding Sweet Drops® Pumpkin Spice or Peppermint to coffee or an unsweetened latte or cappuccino. We promise adding 5 drops tastes like the holidays in a cup!
Our Pro Tip! Try this to cut down on calories and sugar; the next time you order a Pumpkin Spice Latte or Peppermint Mocha ask for it to be made with sugar free syrup, skim milk and no whip cream. Did you know that most drinks are made with 2% or whole milk if you don’t ask for another option. In addition, a lot of signature lattes and mochas come with whipped cream unless you ask for them so omit it. Incorporating these small habits early on are great ways to minimize the stress of overindulging as we enter the “treat ourselves” season.
Tip #2 Limit Alcoholic Drinks
If you do choose to drink alcohol, limit yourself to one or two drinks and then switch to water. During the holiday season alcohol is more prominent because there are more festivities happening. It is important to be mindful that alcohol and mocktails can be high in calories and sugar and too much can leave us feeling “blah” the next morning. A great way to sip on a nonalcohol low sugar drink when socializing is to add a squeeze of SweetLeaf® Water Drops® to still or sparkling water. Another way to enjoy a drink without alcohol is to switch to sparkling water with a lime wedge or order an unsweetened iced tea.
Our Pro Tip! Ask the server for a glass of still or sparkling water with a lemon wedge and add your own Water Drops® This is a hydrating drink that has zero added sugar and is alcohol free. Water Drops® come in a variety of flavors like Peach Mango and Strawberry Kiwi. Now it's easier than ever to stick to your health goals and have a great time socializing this season!
Tips #3 Don't Go Out Starving
If you arrive at a restaurant or a holiday party hungry, you're more likely to overeat on chips, appetizers, breads, desserts, and pastries (Enjoy them but in moderation!). To avoid overindulging, eat your normal meals throughout the day. This will help keep your blood sugar in check so you're less likely to overindulge.
Our Pro Tip! Start your day with a healthy breakfast that you prepare at home and remember to pack lunch. In addition, try to limit it to only one meal out a day.
Tip #4 Fill Your Plate with Protein And Veggies
When choosing from a menu or your food at a holiday potluck or party, try your best to fill your plate with lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, or tofu, and plenty of vegetables. Protein and vegetables are low in calories and high in nutrients and fiber, making them a satisfying meal. Once you've filled your plate with protein and vegetables, you can choose one treat to enjoy. This will help you satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
Our Pro Tip! Remember you don’t need to try everything. Choose a few things to try and check in with yourself after you finish your food to determine if you are still hungry before going back for sends.
Conclusion
Remember to relax, have fun, and savor all the delicious food and drinks that the holiday season has to offer! This is the time to make some memories that will last a lifetime. Browse the SweetLeaf® website to find which products are going to help you stay healthy during the holidays!
