It’s that time of year again - the season filled with celebration, family and lots and lots of food! I don’t know about you but the holiday season is like a never-ending feast filled with rich, decadent comfort food. It’s the best and one of my favourite things.

Below are some healthy holiday habits for you to consider this year -

Chiantelle Nicole Chia's Eats Healthy Holiday Habits Tree

Healthy Habit #1: Eat breakfast.

It’s super easy to get into the habit of skipping meals in order to make room for Christmas dinner however doing so can actually have adverse effects. Some examples include: overeating, blood sugar imbalances (affecting your productivity and the ability to think clearly) a.k.a. The Hangry Vibes, and slower metabolism. To combat these effects, eating a well-rounded breakfast that incorporates carbs, fats and protein will do just great! In a rush or not a big breakfast eater? Opt for having a smoothie with extra veggies incorporated.

Healthy Habit #2: Sit down and be present.

By physically sitting down with no distractions (like creating lists or bringing in some screen time), you allow your body to be in a more relaxed state. Stop what you’re doing and take a seat. This key step helps your body stay out of a stressed flight-or-fight situation and more receptive to what your body is about to digest and ingest.

Healthy Habit #3: Savour each bite.

Did you know that it takes about 20 minutes for your body to recognize that you’re full? Like sitting down and being present with your food, this mindful eating practice will allow you to experience better digestion and have a greater satiety and satisfaction with your food. Ask yourself - what does your food smell like? What does it taste like? How are the textures? Notice how your body reacts to the food you’re eating. Don’t forget to breathe in between each bite.

Chew your food - savour it!

Healthy Habit #4: Get your body moving.

Getting out of my warm bed can be a challenge (am I the only one?!). Find ways to get your body moving - take a brisk walk for your breaks, take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator, clean your house, walk your dog - (grocery) shopping counts too! By moving your body, you get your heart beating pumping and your blood flowing. This is particularly important because it helps nourish your cells and carry waste products out of your system. The holidays can be a crazy season so carving out at least 20 minutes out of your day for intentional movement can alleviate any stresses you have and allow you to think clearer.

Healthy Habit #5: Stay hydrated!

Holiday parties call for some holiday drinks. Before you have your meal, drink one glass of water. If you’re going to be drinking this holiday season, challenge yourself to increase your water intake by alternating between drinking water and alcohol. Alcohol dehydrates your body which can cause impaired sleeping and a really terrible headache in the morning so make sure your last drink before going to bed is water. I’ve created some fun, healthy and super easy recipes in a free e-book below.

Healthy Habit #6: Make sure you’re getting enough sleep.

Late nights, early mornings - going to all the holiday parties can get quite exhausting. Ensure that you’re getting enough quality sleep each night. Doing so will allow your body to rest, recover and rejuvenate. Creating a good evening routine will help your body switch gears and prepare for bed.

If you end up getting the late night munchies (like I do), some foods to consider are: almonds or walnuts (make sure that they’re sprouted or soaked to increase its bioavailability), chamomile tea, tart cherries, or even a banana. What these foods have in common is that they’re rich in tryptophan (a sleep promoting compound).

Healthy Habit #7: Be in the attitude of gratitude so go ahead - have that dessert!

The ultimate key is to remember that it’s a season of celebration spent with family and friends. Let go of the guilt because a bit of over-indulgence once in a while is a-ok! Preventing or restricting yourself from eating certain things can often lead to guilt/stress eating the next day. Remember your health goals and get back on track.

I’ve created a little e-book filled with some easy and healthy recipes that you can start to incorporate this holiday season (or whenever you want really!). Simply fill out your email address and I’ll have it sent to you :)

free healthy holiday habits e-book

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Chiantelle Nicole Chia's Eats signature — chiantelle nicole

Registered Holistic Nutritionist™ (R.H.N.), Self-Proclaimed Food Enthusiast, *Chia’s Eats*

7 Healthy Habits For The Holidays