Tips to Help Control Holiday Eating Binges

Last year when I started my eating changes I made it through the holidays without gaining any weight. Yes, I’m proud of that fact because it is very hard, as you well know. All of those amazing foods that you grew up with bring back the memories and taste so darn good!

Unfortunately, we know now that we have to watch what we eat because the saying “A Moment on Our Lips Forever on Our Hips” is a reality today. LOL! So I thought about some of the tricks that I use to help control the holiday eating binges and thought I would share them with you.

Tips to Help Control Holiday Eating Binges

First thing is drink plenty of water
I drink close to a gallon of water a day. Drinking that much water helps flush out impurities and will let you know when you truly are hungry and not just thirsty.

Eat before arriving so that you’re not tempted to graze on those calorie laden snacks
That way you can just focus on the foods that you love on the table and not worry about over eating. You have more control when you have food in your stomach.

Make sure to eat plenty of protein
What time of year it’s not hard because many of our holiday meals focus on the turkey or ham or standing rib roast, whatever your family enjoys. By focusing on the protein, you won’t have to worry so much about the fatty carbs and it will be easier to control the amount you eat.

Make sure to include fiber in your meals
Whether your adding some to your pre-meal snack or including it in a breakfast oatmeal, etc. fiber helps you feel full so you’re not attempted to eat as much.

Keep healthy snacks on hand
Stash them in your handbag or car, luggage, whatever, so that you have them when you feel the urge to binge. While everybody’s enjoying the appetizers you can’t handle, munching on your own snacks will let you enjoy the festivities too.

Watch for sugar in the foods
Try to keep it sugar-free as much as possible. Sugar is a huge issue because of it’s addictive qualities and how your body processes it and stores it as fat. It is a love/hate relationship for sure!

Bring your own food if you have to
Depending on where you’re going and what’s being served, you may want to bring a side dish or something that you know is safe for you to eat. That way you’re still enjoying the meal with friends and family, but you’re not as tempted to eat the wrong things.

All of these tips can really help you control the binge eating during holidays and special occasions. The one thing to remember if you do mess up, it’s only one day or one meal or one item and you can get back on track tomorrow by starting with number one – Drink the water. Then get back on track right away. No guilt!