Navigating Holiday Nutrition: A Realistic Approach by Elease
Welcome to our new blog series, "Overheard at the Studio"! Here at MBDY, we don't just focus on the physical aspect of fitness and dance; we're also a hub for vibrant, insightful, and sometimes unexpected conversations. This series is our way of opening the doors to the discussions that happen before and after classes. From wellness tips to life hacks, we share the pearls of wisdom and fun tidbits that our community exchanges. Get ready to dive into the heart of MBDY + be - where every chat is as enriching as our classes!
As we step into the heart of the holiday season, I want to share some practical tips on how to enjoy festive parties without sidelining your wellness goals.
Mindful Eating During the Holidays
The holiday season is full of delicious temptations, but it's possible to enjoy the treats without going overboard because who wants to wake up with a sugar or alcohol hangover? It's about striking a balance and making informed choices, not depriving yourself of seasonal food's joys.
So, let’s talk strategy, not restrictions.
When a festive party is on the agenda, where I plan to indulge in delightful treats and a few drinks, I make sure to start my day with a solid foundation of clean protein and fiber. This helps me maintain equilibrium, as I consciously reduce my intake of grains, sugars, and carbs earlier in the day, anticipating that I'll enjoy them at the event.
So what does that look like?
Breakfast: I start my day with a protein-rich breakfast - eggs and turkey sausage, paired with berries for fiber. This combination keeps me full and energized, steering clear of grains in the morning.
Lunch: A protein-packed salad is my midday meal. Chicken Waldorf salad is a favorite, with the right blend of celery, apples, grapes, and walnuts. Instead of a mayonnaise-based dressing, I’ll mix Greek yogurt with a squeeze of lime, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. It's a satisfying mix of protein and healthy fats that keep me full without feeling heavy.
Managing Alcohol Intake
Alcohol can be a big part of holiday celebrations, but it's easy to overdo it. We’ve all been there enjoying ourselves, mindlessly refilling our glasses while engaged in conversations.
I’m all for the choice to enjoy holiday parties sober if that’s how you roll, fantastic!
When I choose to imbibe, my approach is to match 1:1 alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. That way, I don’t feel like I'm missing out. I still have a drink in my hand and maintain a mindful balance. By planning and staying mindful, I still had a great time without paying for it the next day.
I love quality sparkling wine, so I like to alternate with non-alcoholic bubbly options like Hop Wtr, French Bloom, or sparkling water with a slice of citrus fruit. Of course, loads of trendy retail mocktail and dry beverage brands are capitalizing on the sober curious movement. Many are good, but watch out - some brands are loaded with sugar.
If You Overindulge
It happens to the best of us. If you overeat or drink, don't waste time feeling guilty, especially if you enjoyed the night! It's important to remember that one indulgent evening won't derail your fitness goals. Also, don't fall for the myth that you must 'burn off' your indulgence. First off, you don’t have to. Cut yourself some slack. Secondly, your workouts are more than just a calorie countermeasure.
Final Thoughts
As we celebrate, remember holiday gatherings are about being together, laughing, and creating memories. This includes the opportunity to enjoy seasonal treats, which should be something that we look forward to. Enjoy the season, eat mindfully, and don't stress the small stuff (like an extra cookie or two).
We hope this peek into our studio's conversations sparked some inspiration. Now, we'd love to hear from you! Share your go-to wellness tips or something intriguing you've heard at MBDY on our social platforms (Facebook / Instagram). You might just be featured in our next "Overheard at the Studio" post!