Helpful hints for holiday eating

To stop the COVID-19 crisis in our community, holidays must look different this year. With an emphasis on safety—like not gathering with anyone from outside of your household—it's more important than ever to make holiday meal choices that can help you stay healthy. Here are tips to navigate the holiday meal highway, no matter how small your celebration.

• Map out a plan. Planning helps you remain on track with your health goals. Reach out to friends and family virtually for healthy recipes. Many people are trying to stay on course with their health goals this time of year, so you may find more support than roadblocks.
• Fill up on the right fuel. High fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, provide a feeling of fullness. If your household will be enjoying multiple dishes, look at your choices and decide what you really want. Cutting items in smaller portions allow you to try more things without becoming too full. Using a smaller plate can aid in stopping when you're comfortably full.
• Another tip? Stay well hydrated: Your body can mistake thirst for hunger. By drinking enough, you have a better chance of noticing true hunger and fullness signals. Speaking of which, remember that it takes about 20 minutes for your stomach to tell your brain you're full
• Respect your body's fullness cues. Move to a room other than the kitchen after a meal. Keeping food in a central location can decrease snacking or grazing after finishing a meal. If you prefer to continue to sit at the table, remove your plate and silverware when you're done eating so that you're more likely to respect your body's fullness cues and less likely to go back for more.
• Enjoy the time. Things may look and feel different, but it's important to try to enjoy the holiday season. It's a great time of year to practice gratitude.