Counting Calories During the Holidays

The holidays can be a challenging time to stay on track with your nutrition goals. So what should you do?

Counting Calories

Many of my clients often approach me with the question of how they should track their calorie intake during holiday feasts. While there may be a few exceptional cases, I usually advise all of them to not worry about it. The reason is that the mental stress and anxiety that come with counting calories during a large holiday meal can be more harmful than just taking the day off and enjoying the feast. It's important to remember that holidays are meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, and food is an integral part of the celebration. Focusing too much on calorie counting can take away from the joy and spirit of the occasion.

Obsessive logging can also create more stress and anxiety. Instead, I suggest a focus on mindful eating and listening to the body’s hunger cues. This way, we can still enjoy the delicious food without feeling guilty or anxious about our calorie intake. Remember, changing our habits is how we achieve success. One off-day will not affect the weeks/months/years of intuitive and mindful changes already made to your diet and lifestyle!

What Should I Do Instead?

Go for a walk! After eating, and before the turkey coma sets in, get the family or pets together and go for a 15-30 minute walk. Any sort of exercise after a large meal directly affects your spiked blood glucose levels, lowering them as your body becomes active through even the smallest bouts of exercise.

- Start small: Begin by walking for just 10-15 minutes after a meal, and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your walks over time.
- Make it a habit: Schedule your walks at the same time each day, and make them a non-negotiable part of your routine.
- Find a walking buddy: Walking with a friend or family member can make it more enjoyable and help to keep you accountable.
- Make it fun: Listen to music or a podcast while you walk, or explore new neighborhoods or parks to keep things interesting.

Walking after a meal is a simple and effective way to improve blood sugar control and promote overall health and well-being. By increasing insulin sensitivity, aiding in digestion, and lowering blood sugar levels, walking after a meal can have numerous benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels. By incorporating post-meal walking into your daily routine, you can take control of your blood sugar levels and improve your overall health and well-being. If delving into the intricacies of metabolism and elevating your nutritional journey piques your interest, seize the opportunity to arrange a complimentary 20-minute consultation with a sports nutritionist today!