’Tis the season to practise mindful eating
The idea of eating healthy over the holidays might seem impossible, especially with all the delicious goodies at the core of every gathering. Stressful enough already, adding an extra layer of worry over what you shouldn’t be eating can take the fun out of the holiday season. This year, enjoy the foods you love by embracing what is known as a mindful eating approach.
Mindful eating is one strategy you can use to focus on more than food. It is a shift from thinking about what we eat to how we eat, in a way that is flexible and positive. This shift in thinking may help you develop healthy behaviours and a positive attitude about food, setting you up for long-term success.
Here are Sobeys dietitians’ top three tips to help you practise mindful eating this holiday season:
1) Take time to eat. Eat slowly and take time to savour every bite. Use all of your senses when eating, especially with your favourite holiday treats. Take time to focus on seeing, smelling, chewing, tasting and swallowing every bite. Don’t forget to put your fork down between mouthfuls to really encourage you to take a moment and enjoy it! 2) Think about what you eat. When choosing foods, consider how you feel about eating that food. Do you feel excited, guilty or comforted? Does the food stir a special memory for you? Choosing nourishing foods you
like. Enjoy foods that may be less nutritious in smaller portions without feeling guilty. At holiday parties, put small amounts of the foods you love on a small plate or napkin then step away from the table to socialize. 3) Choose your favourites. With lots to choose from during the holidays, pick your favourites and give yourself permission to enjoy what you are eating. Restricting yourself from having certain foods creates negative feelings and can lead to overeating later on.
Remember, the holidays come only once a year. By being mindful, you can enjoy the foods you love and feel good about yourself.
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NUTRITION EVENTS Feeding Baby (Free) Wondering what the first foods are to offer? How to make your own? Which brand to buy?
Bring baby and get your questions answered. Thursday, Dec. 12, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Contact registered dietitian Jennifer Ferguson at jennifer. ferguson@sobeys.com or 902895-7382 fr information.
Jennifer Ferguson is a registered dietitian with Sobeys in Truro.