The holidays are just around the corner! How are you feeling? Excited? Overwhelmed? Nervous about all of the food?

As a dietitian who loves to eat, I’m sharing 3 tips to help you eat well through the holidays (and beyond)!

Tip #1:  Be picky

There’s probably going to be a lot of different food choices. Tell yourself that you don’t have to eat them all. Do a once over of all the choices available and then be picky about what you put on your plate. Love your uncle’s mashed potatoes? Go for it! Not crazy about your cousin’s quiche? Give it a pass.

Tip #2: Be realistic with your portions

You know the saying – “Our eyes are bigger than our stomachs!” Sometimes, we take more food than we can realistically eat. In my experience, I find that the first three or four bites of a food are AWESOME! And then after that, well, the food becomes a little meh. If a food still tastes awesome after the fourth bite, you can always go back for more. Practice this type of mindfulness to help prevent overeating. Bonus – you’ll reduce food waste too!

Tip #3:  Ditch the diet talk

Ditch the diet talk like “I know I shouldn’t, but I’m going to have dessert” or “I’m going to be bad and have another chocolate.” Avoid judging yourself or anyone else for what and how much they’re eating. Instead, build a healthy relationship with food that allows you to honour your hunger / cravings and enjoy food for it’s nourishment, comfort and nostalgia. Our kids, grandkids, nephews and nieces are watching and listening to us. Let’s model healthy behaviours and show them that all foods can be enjoyed without guilt.

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy holiday season!

P.S. Here’s the recipe for these cute Strawberry Santas!