How to give your favorite indulgences a do-over

Make food at home. Store bought foods are likely to be more processed and higher in added sugar and sodium. For example, you can try making your own mashed potatoes and desserts at home, to control what goes into each recipe. You can also swap certain nutrients for their healthier counterparts. Try swapping sugar for applesauce, Greek yogurt for sour cream, or canned pumpkin for any oil.

Rethink your drink. Balance out alcoholic beverages with water, flavored seltzers, or mocktails. You can add in berries, pomegranate seeds and rosemary for a fun holiday-themed nutrient boost. Limiting alcohol will help control your appetite and ensure you stay hydrated.

Don’t miss meals. In addition to what you eat, how you eat is important as well, and contrary to popular belief, you shouldn’t skip meals to “save up calories for later”. This can lead to mindless overeating and uncomfortable gastrointestinal discomfort later. Even if you’re having a big dinner, try to still get in a balanced breakfast like some oatmeal with fruit and chia seeds or eggs scrambled with veggies and whole grain toast on the side. This will help to balance your blood sugar levels avoid the chance that you go into dinner feeling ravenous. When you’re at dinner, slow down and be mindful during the meal.