The holidays are fast approaching, bringing drinks, brunches, snacks, and festive Christmas dinners. Want to maintain your healthy lifestyle? BeBio shares practical tips from our experts.
This is a guest blog by Willemijn and Liselotte from BeBio.nl.
Prioritize three balanced meals a day
Resist the urge to skip breakfast or lunch—it's counterproductive. Regular meals help curb cravings and temptations. Opt for a nutritious lunch at work instead of that oliebol at the reception, and keep nuts handy in your bag to fend off unexpected hunger pangs.
Embrace healthy snacks and get creative in the kitchen Swap in wholesome alternatives and bake your own treats whenever possible. This way, you control the ingredients and can use natural sweeteners like dates, bananas, or coconut blossom sugar—still sweet, but with fewer refined sugars. Studding mandarin oranges with cloves makes a festive, table-ready snack.
Prioritize quality sleep Adequate rest reduces production of the hunger hormone ghrelin, making it easier to choose healthier options throughout the day.
Stay active amid the festivities
Movement is key during this busy season. Rise early for a brisk walk around the block or a jog in the park. A family stroll is always a win-win.
Strike a healthy balance For many, holidays mean joy and indulgence. Ease up a bit, but aim for equilibrium—not every bite needs to be unhealthy. We follow an 80/20 rule: 80% nourishing foods, 20% treats. During holidays, give yourself some flexibility.
Avoid crash diets post-holidays
We don't recommend dieting, especially right after the festivities. Resist the urge to fast; it triggers survival mode and can lead to rebound weight gain. Instead, ramp up exercise gently and ease back into your healthy routines.
Above all, savor the season!
Enjoy the holidays with mindful balance. Happy Holidays!
You might also know Willemijn and Liselotte from the Healthbox—a curated box of healthy products, perfect for gifting. Visit the website for details.