Tips on How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays
Author Tylia Flores shares her tools that keep her on track
I was born with cerebral palsy and need help with lifting and transferring when it comes to doing everyday tasks. I have always had to maintain my diet because of this.
When I was growing up, doctors advised my mother that it was very important that she monitor my calorie intake and weight since I can't burn calories and lose weight the same way as everyone else.
And, I have done that my whole life. But when it comes to holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, trying to maintain a diet and stay healthy is pretty difficult, to say the least, since I tend to have a lot of sweet treats, like pumpkin spice cake and eggnog.
So how do I manage to stay healthy during the holidays?
“What I like to do during the holidays is keep a schedule in place.”
KEEP A SCHEDULE
Believe it or not, what I like to do during the holidays is keep a schedule in place. That way, I can keep track of the days that I do eat unhealthy foods, and I can also keep a schedule of the healthy foods that I eat. This allows me to space out the portions and calories I have for that week of holiday festivities.
Having a schedule helps you keep a clear, organized mindset, and you will feel less overwhelmed with everything going on during the holiday season.
WORK OUT
What I also like to do is try to squeeze in some time to do physical therapy, whether it be swimming or using my walker to strengthen my legs and move around, which helps me burn calories—especially when my miniature schnauzer chases me around the garage as I work out!
SWITCH UP YOUR SNACKS
What also helps is if I find an alternative snack that has fewer calories. For instance, instead of a piece of cake, I'll have a piece of fruit from a fruit basket, so I can maintain my diet and still enjoy the holiday festivities, without feeling left out.
REACH OUT + BUDDY UP
Another thing I like to do is have an open discussion with my caregiver about my dieting plan and what it's going to look like during the holiday season. That way, we're on the same page.
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
The holidays are stressful enough as it is. If you overindulge one day, don’t get upset, just get back on track the next.
Ultimately, staying healthy throughout the holiday season can be challenging, but you can achieve your goals.
