93: When to Indulge, When to Skip: Your Guide to Smart Holiday Eating

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As the holiday season approaches, it’s a time of excitement, connection, and celebration—but it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when you’re trying to prioritize your health. Between family gatherings, changes in routine, and an abundance of food, finding balance can feel more difficult than ever. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

With some planning and intentional choices, you can enjoy the season to the fullest while still supporting your well-being. In this blog, I’ll share three practical tips to help you navigate the holiday season (or any time of year when food is aplenty and routines are disrupted). These strategies are ones I’ve personally learned over the years, and I hope they’ll help you feel confident and in control. Whether you’re facing a family holiday or any event with tempting treats, these tips will help you stay grounded and make choices that work for you.

Tip #1: Create Pockets of Control

During the holiday season—or any time you’re traveling or attending events where you’re unsure of what will be available—it can feel like there’s little room to prioritize your health. But I want to encourage you to take back small moments of control, even in the most unpredictable situations. These little wins can make a huge difference in how you feel throughout the day.

Start with the basics, like hydration. Can you make sure to drink water first thing in the morning, just like you normally would? If you’re away from home, it’s easy to let your hydration slip, but something as simple as getting your morning water in can set a positive tone for the day.

If you’re someone who feels best with protein, I highly recommend bringing along a few essentials with you. For example, I’m known for Instacarting items like cottage cheese, hard-boiled eggs, or protein drinks to wherever I’m staying. It’s a small investment that helps me feel great in the mornings and ensures I’m getting the nutrients I need, no matter where I am. Whether you’re staying at a hotel or a friend’s house, this can be as simple as having a protein bar on hand for when you’re running out the door or need a snack to avoid overeating at the main meal.

It’s all about creating those little pockets of control. When I recently stayed at a retreat, I made sure I had my protein drinks delivered. It wasn’t complicated, but it made a world of difference in helping me feel energized and balanced. And don’t underestimate the power of simple habits, like taking a walk in the morning. Whether you're at a hotel, at home, or even on a chilly day, there are always opportunities to move your body. A quick walk or even pacing in a hallway can regulate your mood and help you stay grounded.

The key is to think ahead and find just a few areas where you can exert a little bit of control. Hydration, protein, and movement are some of the easiest ways to stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. These small, simple acts will help you stay connected to yourself during the busy holiday season, so you can enjoy everything else without the guilt or discomfort later.

Tip #2: Decide What’s Worth It

The holiday season is filled with tempting food choices, but it's important to decide what’s truly worth the indulgence. Instead of saying “yes” to everything that’s on offer, focus on the foods that bring you the most joy.

For me, it’s all about recognizing which treats are worth it. For example, at Thanksgiving, I’ll skip the mediocre candy or bread rolls, but I’ll savor the amazing potato pancakes from my favorite German restaurant. It's about prioritizing what really satisfies you.

When you're faced with tempting options, ask yourself: Do I love this enough to indulge? If yes, go for it, but consider scaling back on other foods—like bread or mashed potatoes—to make room for what you truly enjoy. It’s all about balance, making intentional choices, and savoring the foods that matter most to you.

Tip #3: Plan for Magic

To feel your best during the holiday season, it’s essential to plan for the things that make you feel amazing, both in the moment and the next day. For me, this means sticking to my protein drink, eggs, and salad, even during big family meals. It helps me feel grounded and nourished before enjoying the festive treats.

By prioritizing your health and well-being, you can indulge in the magic of the season without feeling overstuffed or regretful afterward. Yes, be spontaneous and enjoy the celebration, but planning ahead allows you to savor the moment without the feeling like you’ve been run over the next day. When you balance intention with enjoyment, you set yourself up for a more energized and fulfilling holiday season.

The holidays don’t have to derail your health. By planning small, intentional actions—like staying hydrated, prioritizing movement, and choosing what’s truly worth it—you can enjoy the season without feeling overstuffed or drained. It’s about balance, making mindful choices, and embracing what matters most. With a little preparation, you can feel great and fully enjoy the magic of the holidays.