Work on a holiday eating strategy

The annual celebration of Halloween marks the unofficial start to the holiday eating season.

How we approach these ghoulish tricks and sweet treats can set the stage for the either naughty or nice eating practices that carry into the New Year. Adopt a holiday food survival plan now to help you sail into the New Year with no regrets.

Of course, don’t let enjoying a few Halloween treats scare you.

Just keep in mind that now is the ideal time to be proactive for your health. So, if you tend to make New Year’s resolutions for better eating or achieving your ideal weight, take note.

The habits that lead up to that January resolution are likely still up for negotiation right now. Before you reach for another funsize candy bar, consider committing to starting out the New Year on the right track just a few months early.

This is the time to start the holiday season off early with conscious efforts surrounding food choices and exercise. A laid back attitude on splurging on Halloween treats can set the stage for a lack of mindfulness, overeating and imbalance with the festivities and holidays yet to come.

Why go through the hassle of gaining five or more pounds over the coming weeks just to have to work even harder to take them off, when you can be losing weight during the holidays? Don’t lose momentum this holiday season.

Here are some strategies to achieve healthy eating success during what are typically the most challenging months.

Realize your goals

Whether you want to lose weight or maybe lower your blood sugar levels, the first step towards success is defining your goals. Create SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) goals that speak to you and be sure to write them down.

For example, wanting to lose weight is not enough. How much weight do you want to lose, by what date and what is your plan of action?

Prioritize favorite foods

The key to being on a successful holiday eating plan is to not feel deprived while being able to participate in the festivities, even when they center on food. You may want to make a mental note of a few seasonal favorites you refuse to give up. Allowing yourself to enjoy a special dessert or a traditional family recipe that only comes around once a year will give you the confidence to stick to your plan knowing you won’t be left out.

This might mean compromising on other less important foods to create overall balance in your

eating plan.

Portion size

This time of year food is a bit more decadent and large, festive meals abound. Therefore, ignoring portion control can be disastrous. In fact, focusing on smaller servings can be the number one thing that guides you successfully through this challenging time.

Eat to be satisfied, not stuffed, on vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. A handy set of measuring cups can be a useful tool for anyone trying to eat less.

Exercise

Become just as enthusiastically committed to your fitness routine as you are to your food plan. Set yourself up for success and consistency by choosing exercise what is convenient and enjoyable. You are more likely to stick to your exercise plan if it is gratifying.

Try to schedule physical activity into your day so it becomes a habit, not a chore. If you plan to travel during the holiday season, make a plan to workout even when your routine is thrown off. Join friends or family for a walk or look into group fitness classes or sports to help you stay active while away from home.