Staying Healthy Through the Holidays

December 20, 2017

Make merry and bright choices with these simple tips from physicians at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health.

A Holiday Party Survival Guide from Dr. Marino

Have A Small, Healthy Snack Before The Holiday Party: Have some almond butter on a few slices of apple, or try some carrot or celery sticks dipped in hummus or black bean spread. These snacks contain protein, fiber and some healthy, hunger satisfying fat- so you will be less likely to overindulge.

Choose Between Alcohol And Dessert: One 5-ounce glass of red or white wine has approximately 100-125 calories, which is about the same as 2 sugar cookies. A 4-ounce mixed drink, such as a cosmopolitan, has roughly 200 calories which is about the same as a slice of pumpkin pie. You can see that if you have 2 glasses of wine and dessert, the calories can start piling up- and that's without even factoring in the hors d'oeurves or main course!  Decide what you are in the mood for that night and keep your calorie count manageable.   

Share Your Dessert: The holiday season is all about giving, right? So share your dessert with a friend and cut the calories in half. You'll still get to enjoy the taste.

5 Healthy Eating Tips from Dr. Bazzan

1. Drinking water and/or tea throughout the day can help fill you up and decrease cravings for salt and sugar.
2. Eat light meals at nighttime.
3. Begin your meals with fresh vegetables in salads and/or smoothies since they are high in energy and low in calories.
4. Plan your day’s meals whether you are at home or work so you don’t overindulge.
5. Eat more plants and less animal products.

And lastly, a simple but impactful tip from Dr. Rakel during this holiday season...

Exercise, Exercise, and Exercise. 

There is no such thing as bad weather only bad clothing. Exercise helps boost your immune system and is proven to reduce stress. Make sure you schedule time to exercise even if you are only able to go on a 30-minute walk each day.