Eating Healthy During Special Events

Many of us find it
difficult to eat healthy during special occasions or family events.  It’s
also the time when so many individuals overeat, due to having a variety of food
and desserts to enjoy.  However, this can also be the time when a lot of us put
on quite a few pounds.  Many individuals may choose
not to hold back as much during these times.  Some may feel it’s only this time,
which may turn into weekly or even daily choices.  Therefore, one may begin to notice weight
gain and other health concerns such as:  Hypertension,
Diabetes, Heart Disease, Cancer and many others.  Therefore,
these concerns become an ongoing cycle.  If
you’d like to change the direction and eat healthy during special events, this
is possible. However, you’ll need to put a few guidelines in place to succeed.
Get to know some of the best ways of eating healthy during special events.

 Eat Mindful- When one eats mindful
meals, one can be present and not mindless.  Make it a habit to eat at the table without
your cell phone. You’re able to remain in the moment and know what’s going on
around you. You’re able to think about
how you feel, and how you feel about the food you’re eating.  Therefore, one may savor the food
differently.  Moreover, this may encourage one to slow down and enjoy your
meal.  When it comes to food, be conscious
not careless. 

Plan and Prepare Your Food-It might seem impossible to plan and prepare
your food when you’re going to an event, and you’re unsure what’s going to be
served. However, there are a few things to consider. If you’re planning on going
to a dinner event, eat light in the morning and afternoon. Maybe have a protein
shake for breakfast and for lunch enjoy a piece of lean protein with a fresh
salad. By eating meals throughout the day, one has a better chance of making a
healthy food choice for dinner.

Control Your Portions – Portion
control is such a major component of maintaining a healthy weight. If one wants
to maintain one’s personal well-being during special events, it’s so important to
monitor and control your portions. Taking large amounts instead of small
portions, puts an individual at risk for overeating. Special events are times
when excess is accepted. One may choose not to follow this specific tradition. One
can remain a healthy eater at any event.
However, one doesn’t have to miss out on all treats.  If you want a
piece of dessert, take a small amount and have with a glass of water.  A lot of
times, a small amount will satisfy one’s sweet craving.

Eat when you’re hungry – Sometimes we confuse dehydration with hunger.  Having a glass of water before meals, helps
with hydration as well as helping to control the amount of food one may consume.
The water will help you remain fuller for a longer period.  One may eat because food is present not
because one may be hungry. You might be surprised at the amount of success you
experience with more water in your system. It can really help individuals avoid
excessive snacking and eating.

Overall,
we all want to enjoy our special times with family and friends. Eating has
always played a big part in socializing.
Everything takes time and practice.
Beginning is always the first step.
We can keep the fun while remaining conscious.