Article by Ellen Colasuonno, MS RDN/ Nutrition & Wellness Educator
The holidays are a time for gathering with family and friends, enjoying favorite foods, and making memories. They can also be a busy time of year, especially when holiday plans change our usual routines. With all the advice about what we “should” and “shouldn’t” eat during the holidays, it can be easy to feel like enjoying the season and being healthy are two different things. They aren't!
You don't need to skip your favorite holiday foods or follow a strict diet to support your health. Instead, focus on a few simple habits that can help you feel your best while still enjoying the traditions and people that make this time of year special.
Start with your regular meals. It may be tempting to skip breakfast or lunch to “save room” for a big holiday meal, but arriving at dinner overly hungry can make it harder to recognize when you're comfortably full. Eating your usual meals throughout the day can help you have the energy you need and enjoy your holiday meal without feeling like you have to make up for it later.
When it comes to the meal itself, make room for the foods you enjoy. Holiday foods are often about more than nutrition. They can be connected to family traditions, special memories, and the people we share them with. If there is a favorite dish or dessert that you look forward to every year, enjoy it! When you have a variety of foods available, try including some protein, fruits or vegetables, grains, and other foods you enjoy. You don't need a perfect plate at every meal. A little variety can help provide the nutrients and energy your body needs.
The holidays are also a great time to stay active in ways that work for you. A walk with a family member, some light stretching, dancing to your favorite holiday music, or simply getting up and moving throughout the day can all count. Choose activities that are enjoyable and appropriate for your abilities.
And perhaps most importantly, make time for connection. Staying connected with others can support overall well-being, and the holidays offer plenty of opportunities to spend time together. Share a meal at a community dining site, invite a friend or neighbor over for coffee, call a family member, or participate in a holiday gathering. If you live alone or don't have family nearby, look for local community events or meal programs that offer opportunities to connect with others. Sometimes the best part of a holiday meal is simply having someone to share it with.
Remember, give yourself some grace. One holiday meal, dessert, or busy day does not determine your health. What you do consistently over time matters much more than what happens at one celebration.
This holiday season, enjoy the foods you love, keep moving in ways that feel good, and make time for the people who matter. There is plenty of room for both health and holiday fun at the table.
Check out our website at chqgov.com/office-aging to see all the programs and services offered. Additionally, by signing up for our communication system, if you are not already registered, will provide you with information at your fingertips. We send messages about the current programs you may be interested in through your preferred communication method: text, email, or an automated call. If you are not already signed up to receive these messages, just call us at our NY Connects line 716-753-4582.
By making simple and healthy choices on a daily basis, you will be well on your way towards achieving total wellness. We know the healthy choice is not always the easiest choice, but small changes can make a big difference. Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services offers Nutrition & Wellness programs to support you in your journey toward total wellness. Call NY Connects at 716-753-4582 for more details and information about any of the Nutrition and Wellness programs provided by Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services.
SNAP-Ed materials are funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. Some of these materials have been funded in whole or in part by grants from the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA), and/ or the Administration on Aging (AOA) and/ or Administration for Community Living (ACL). Nothing herein is intended, nor should be construed, as an endorsement by the State of New York.
