How to Have Your Cake and Eat It Too Holiday Guide
The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and of course, plenty of delicious food. But for those trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, the holidays can feel like a test of willpower. The good news? You don’t have to choose between enjoying your favourite treats and staying on track with your fitness goals. Here’s how you can “have your cake and eat it too” during the holidays.
1. Plan Ahead, Not Just Your Plate
Heading into a holiday event without a plan can lead to overindulging. Think ahead about what you want to enjoy most. Is it your aunt’s famous cookies, or are you more excited for the savoury dishes? Prioritize the foods that matter most to you and give yourself permission to enjoy them without going overboard. When you set boundaries ahead of time, it’s easier to indulge mindfully.
2. Balance is Key
Holiday meals are often packed with rich, heavy dishes, so balance is crucial. Aim to fill half your plate with vegetables or lighter options, a quarter with lean protein like turkey or roast beef, and the last quarter with the indulgent sides you love—whether that’s mashed potatoes, stuffing, or dessert. This way, you can enjoy a variety of flavours without overloading on calories.
3. Move Before (and After) the Festivities
A great way to set a positive tone for the day is to start with some physical activity. Whether it’s a walk, a quick workout, or even a fun outdoor game with family, getting moving helps boost your metabolism and puts you in a healthy mindset. Post-meal, consider going for a walk to aid digestion and burn off some of those holiday calories. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to catch up with loved ones.
4. Watch Your Portions
Holiday feasts often tempt us with large servings, and it’s easy to go back for seconds or thirds. The secret to enjoying the meal without overindulging is portion control. Start with smaller portions of your favourite dishes and eat slowly, savouring each bite. If you’re still hungry after your first plate, wait 10-15 minutes before getting more— often, your body just needs a bit of time to feel full.
5. Be Mindful of Drinks
It’s easy to forget how quickly holiday drinks can add up in calories. Whether it’s a glass of wine, a cocktail, or a sugary cider, those liquid calories can sneak up on you. Enjoy your favourite beverages in moderation, and try alternating with water to stay hydrated and avoid overconsuming. This small change can make a big difference without sacrificing the festive spirit.
6. Enjoy Your Favourite Foods— Without Guilt
One of the biggest stressors during the holidays is the fear of overindulging. But the holidays are meant to be enjoyed, and part of that enjoyment is indulging in your favourite treats. Allow yourself to enjoy the foods you love guilt-free. When you approach the meal with balance and mindfulness, you’ll feel satisfied and happy, not regretful.
7. Make It a Day, Not a Season
Holiday meals can easily stretch into days or even weeks of indulgence. The key to staying on track is to treat holiday feasts as a single event rather than letting the celebration spill into the days that follow. Savour the holiday meal, then return to your normal healthy routine the next day. Leftovers are great, but they don’t have to derail your progress.
By planning ahead, staying active, and enjoying your favourite foods in moderation, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—celebrating the holidays and staying committed to your health goals. The holiday season should be about joy, not stress, so embrace the festivities and have your cake (or pie!) without worry!
Jari Love is a certified trainer and creator of the successful scientifically tested Get RIPPED!® series. You can learn more about Jari Love at www.jarilove.com. You can follow her on Facebook at @JariLoveFitness and at @rippedjari on Instagram.
