Heart Healthy Hacks

Heart Healthy Hacks for the Holidays

It’s time for family gatherings, festivities, and lots and plenty of food. There are temptations everywhere, and events and travel interfere with daily activities. And it all continues for weeks.

When everyone around you seems to be overindulging, how can you maintain your healthy heart diet plan?

Here are 5 suggestions to consider

1. Ensure Your Health Goal Is Holiday-Proof

You might not be able to choose the meal that is provided to you, and you’ll probably watch other individuals relishing appealing foods. Armed with a strategy, take on the challenges:

  • To maintain a stable blood sugar level, eat close to your typical times. Eat a modest snack at your regular lunchtime and a bit less when dinner is offered if your meal is served later than usual.
  • Invited to a gathering? Offer to bring a nutritious dish along.
  • Reduce other carbohydrates (such potatoes and bread) during the meal if you indulge in a sweet dessert.
  • To save money for a feast, don’t miss meals. Your blood sugar control will be more difficult, and you’ll be extremely hungry and more prone to overeat.
  • If you do cheat on a meal, resume a balanced diet with your subsequent meal.

2. Outsmart the Buffet

With a plethora of mouthwatering holiday foods to choose from, make choosing healthy options easier:

  • You should take a small dish of the foods you enjoy the most before leaving the buffet table.
  • To curb your hunger, you should start with vegetables.
  • Eat gradually. Your brain doesn’t realize that you’re full for at least 20 minutes.
  • Limit your alcohol intake. If you do consume alcohol, pair it with a meal. Alcohol can affect how well diabetic medications work and reduce blood sugar.
  • Plan to monitor your blood sugar levels as well. During the holidays, check it more frequently, and if you take medication, consult your doctor to see if the dosage has to be changed.

3. Incorporate Favorites

There is no delicacy on the naughty list. Pick the foods you truly enjoy that are only available during certain seasons, such as Aunt Edna’s pumpkin pie. Be sure to include a modest serving in your meal plan and take your time enjoying it.

Nothing needs to be on the “naughty list” of food if you properly plan for it.

4. Keep Moving Around

This time of year, you probably have a lot on your plate, which makes it difficult to fit in with physical activity. However, being active will help you make up for eating more than usual and can also help you feel less stressed during this particularly stressful time of year. Get exercising by going for a stroll after a holiday meal with friends and family.

5. Get Some ZZZ’s

Cutting back on sleep typically results from going out more and staying out later. Losing sleep can make it more difficult to control your blood sugar, and sleep-deprived people tend to consume more and favor foods heavy in fat and sugar. To avoid mindless eating, aim for 7 to 8 hours each night.

A word from the doctor—

It is very essential to take care of your heart during the holiday season, but don’t spend your merriment worrying about health.

The most important thing is to remember what the season is all about – celebrating and connecting with loved ones. Taking time to enjoy the party makes it easier for you to ignore the food.

And if you still seek any help regarding your health during the festivities, then contact me right away!

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