How to Handle the Holiday Parties the HEALTHY WAY!

New Year, New You!

You are probably thinking…why didn’t you write this article a few weeks ago when it was Thanksgiving!

Well, don’t fret!

This article will not only help you for the upcoming holiday festivities (which most likely will include lots of food, drinks, and mingling), but it can help all year round. With how busy everyone is during the holidays and all of the time it can take up, it might seem difficult to prepare and stay healthy during the “season of eating”.  Below are some tips you can use through the holidays and hopefully carry through the New Year.

Let me start by saying moderation is KEY!

-When you first wake up drink 8-16oz of water! 

o   You actually wake up dehydrated most days

o   Gets your metabolism going and flushes your system of toxins

o   Drink eight to ten 8 ounce glasses of water a day (try to hit a gallon a day-NOT all at once)

-Eat smaller meals throughout the day so you aren’t starving by dinner

o   Contrary to what you might thinking skipping meals can actually make you binge and over eat at dinner or the holiday party

o   Eat appropriate portions and control cravings with nuts, fruits, and Greek yogurt snacks 
            - For snacks don’t go over a small handful size!

-Eat your vegetables and juice your fruit!

o   The fiber found in vegetables (and fiber in general) keeps your fuller longer and assists in digestion.


-Exercise! (always consult with a physician before starting a new exercise program)

o   Exercising that gets your heart rate going for at least 20 minutes (always try for more time)

o   Allows you to consume more calories as they act as energy and supply your muscle tissue for growth

              - Muscle tissue takes up much less surface area than fat tissue

o   If you know you are going to over indulge you better have had a killer workout that day!

-Drink clear liquor! 

o   A good guideline is the clearer the liquor the lower in calories

           - Stay away from flavored drinks as they tend to have as much sugar as candy!
           - Be careful with hard liquor as you don't want to be "that person" at the company holiday party.

o   Beer and wine have a much higher calorie count and can be filled with gluten and sugar for flavor.

           - If you do chose one of the above remember to drink in moderation and drink a glass of water for every serving of wine or beer.

 -ENJOY YOURSELF!!!

o   Remember that habits take time to create and one or even a few days of indulging shouldn’t ruin all the hard work you put into your health. 

 
With the holidays approaching it’s never a better time to start your healthy habits even before the New Year begins. This should include chiropractic care! If you have any questions feel free to contact Dr. Griffith at Movement Chiropractic and Wellness -650.429.8132 to help asses your health and wellness needs and get you going on your healthy habits in the new year for a new you!

---

Get Healthy TODAY!