I LOVE the holidays, not only because it’s a time to celebrate with family and friends but also because I allow myself to indulge slightly more than the usual. It starts with my Thanksgiving feast. I began hosting thanksgiving a few years ago when I moved to Harlem. I had a few friends who, like me, were away from family for the holiday and some even opted to eat out each turkey day. Eating out seemed like sad blasphemy to me, so I birthed Thanksgiving in Harlem. We all should be able to eat and drink merrily without exclusion at least once a year. I for one, have earned it. 

Here is my yearly list for healthy holiday infamy!

1. Be real – This is maybe the most useful bit of information I’ve found. The average American gains at least three pounds from Halloween to New Year’s. That said, how about focusing on maintaining as opposed to losing weight for the season?
2. Drink half of your body weight in ounces of water – Hunger is all in the mind. if you fill yourself up with water there won’t be much room for anything else. Of course, I start and end each day with a mason jar of my Infused Water.*ALSO, If you plan on drinking – it’s a great idea to stay hydrated. Your head will thank you in the the morning.
3. Eat low to high – calorie intake  – Start with bigger portions of leafy salads or raw appetizers (think veggie tray) then move on to proteins then sides. By the time you reach dessert perhaps you’ll just need a few bites instead of an entire plate.
4. Drink Lightly – Around the holidays there’s always a seasonal beverage – whether it’s pumpkin spiced blah blah blah or bourbon egg nog. While festive, these drinks are loaded with sugars. I stick to spirits on the rocks or a few ounces of red wine. This works double time, save calories and e asily avoid being  the holiday party drunk!
5. Don’t come hungry – From fundraisers to office parties, don’t expect to get your fill. Chances are the food will be buffet style and high in all our favorite sugars and butters. Nine out of ten of us will overeat if we skip meals, so eat clean (fruits and vegetables) before. This leads me to the next tip.
6. Bring a healthy dish – If you’re invited to a dinner party or office gathering that constitutes some kind of offering to the fellow masses, bring something healthy. Of course, according to me healthy can also be quick. Pick up a festive fruit or vegetable tray or opt for creating you own along with fresh hummus for healthy dipping.
7. Dress to form – This may be my favorite tip of all time. Wearing form-fitting clothing, or things that fit perfectly, instead of loose-fitting clothing will keep you cautious of gluttony (especially the ladies). No one wants a bulge, or to appear larger than they are.
8. Size always matters – In the case of buffet situations grab the smallest plate. There are usually smaller plates by the appetizers and desserts; use those for your main meal as well.
9. Sharing is caring – Holidays are about friends and family. Why not share a plate of apps or split a dessert, easily creating tasting portions.
10. Plan – Plan your parties and events.  If you have more than one or two in a day or week, be sure you supplement the extra with a little more cardio and limit eating and drinking accordingly.
11. Don’t loose your mind – Fit in your gym/workout schedule any and everywhere you can. Don’t abandon your regular routine – if you must, create a holiday plan that works around your festive schedule. All it takes is a PLAN.
12. It’s OK to say no – In General, say no – to problem foods and second helpings, say no to events that infringe on your gym schedule or perhaps cause stress. Say no to people who expect too much from you without giving – especially over the stressful holiday months.

Lastly, don’t panic – One day of overeating isn’t going to deter a year of clean eating habits, hydrating and working out.  Stay aware and enjoy.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!

#therobertashow #simplytabbtastic #thanksgivinginharlem