The holidays are upon us and it’s time to party, right? However, you’ve worked so hard during the year on your health and wellness goals. It would be a shame to let all that work go to “waist” just for a few parties and get-togethers. 😉

Put the brakes on my friends! Before you “get down and boogie”, here are six things you should be mindful of and avoid doing prior to lacing up your dancing shoes!

1. Not eating all day before a party.

On the surface, eating lightly all day when you know you’re going to overindulge later can seem like you’re doing something good…

But it actually can backfire, leaving you to eat and drink even MORE than you expected because you are so hungry.

A better bet: Eat healthy, slightly smaller meals before you head out … and then enjoy your favorites in moderation!

2. Overdoing fancy seasonal coffeehouse drinks. 

Even if you’ve seen these numbers before, they bear another look. Talk about empty calories and a roller-coaster ride for your blood sugar levels! Girl, don’t get me started …!

  • Peppermint Hot Chocolate: 12 oz (350 ml) has 330 calories & 41 grams of sugar
  • Caramel Brulee Latte – 12 oz (350 ml) has 310 calories & 36 grams of sugar
  • Eggnog Frappuccino – 16 oz (475 ml) has 410 calories & 60 grams of sugar

3. Eating it just “because it’s there.” 

Worth it: Your once-a-year indulgence of your Nana’s famous gingerbread.

Not so much: The store-bought cookies someone bought at the last minute to bring to the holiday party. They’ll just leave you feeling tired and sorry you ate them.

Decisions … Decisions …

4. Drinking too much.

There are a lot of reasons to be intentional about your alcohol intake. It can interfere with your sleep and dehydrate you … plus alcohol contains a lot of empty calories and A LOT of sugar!

But here’s something you might not realize: It can lower your inhibitions, which means you might be more likely to snack on foods you’d normally avoid!

5. Letting your exercise routine slide.

One of the things we’ve learned over the past almost 2 years is that being fit is a huge part of being healthy – it can help keep your immune system strong and in shape.

Yes, this season can be hectic … but do your best to squeeze in at least a quick workout most days of the week. Not just for your results, but for your mind, stress levels and overall health.

6. Not getting enough sleep.

Making time for sleep is SO WORTH IT. You’ll have more energy to tackle the holidays … plus it will even help keep your metabolism revved and appetite in check.

Remember friends, it’s all about MODERATION.

Having a plan in place is SO IMPORTANT not only during the holidays … but all year long. 

It gets rid of the guesswork while keeping you moving forward. 

Don’t forget to download my free Holiday Survival Guide!  In this guide, I give you a simple plan to take away the worry and stress of the holidays.  You’ll navigate the season without gaining weight, feeling sluggish, or feeling totally stressing out! 🎄🎁

Download your free guide here! 

Until next time!

Yours in health and wellness,

Francine Alleyne (RHNP™)

Holistic Nutritionist, Registered Holistic Nutrition Practitioner™

Email: fran@francinealleyne.com

Website: http://www.midlifehealthy.com

Join my Facebook Group, Midlife Healthy Daily!

Instagram: @wellness.with.fran

DISCLAIMER: Please consult your healthcare practitioner if you are experiencing any symptoms.  I am not a doctor. This post and anything else you find on my website is intended for informational, educational and self-empowerment purposes ONLY and is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition or disease.