Holidays are a time of celebration. The days are full of expectations and indulgences. And when they’re over, sometimes we’re left feeling a little dissatisfied. It’s like eating too much ice cream. Seems like a good idea at the time, but not so much once we’re done. I don’t know about you, but I usually feel bloated, and filled with guilt and regret if I overeat.

Which is why I want to share three easy tips that will help you enjoy your special day and feel good before, during and after.

• Start your day with 6–8 ounces of room temperature water. This signals your body that you’re getting ready to eat. Do this before your morning cup of Joe. Your body will thank you. (Hint: you can do this all year round!)
• Eat a little something before the big meal. Whether your dinner is at 12:00, 1:00 or even later, there’s no need to starve yourself until the grand event. In fact, it’s better if you don’t. Waiting until later puts your body and your mindset into starvation/scarcity mode. Not exactly a great way to start your day of celebration. Have scrambled eggs with whole grain toast, yogurt with fruit and nuts, a bowl of oatmeal with cinnamon and chopped nuts or a green smoothie to start your day off right.
• Pick one or two of your favorites from the dessert table and savor your sweet treat. If there’s more you’d like to try, bring to-go containers, and enjoy them during the week. Chances are by the time you get to dessert, you’re full already. So have a taste of your mom’s apple pie and take a sampling of the other goodies for later.

If you do these three small things, I promise you, you’re going to feel a lot better once the festivities are over.

Have any holiday hacks you’d like to share? Please let me know. I’d love to hear them!

Wishing you a healthy holiday season,