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- calendar_today October 19, 2026
Fall and Holiday Foods: Enjoying the Season
As October arrives, so does cooler weather, football, and an abundance of comfort food. With Thanksgiving and Christmas on the horizon, many people find it challenging to maintain healthy eating habits. However, celebrating the holiday season doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing the progress you've made throughout the year.
Expert Advice from Southeast Missouri State
Charlotte Cervantes, a registered dietitian with Southeast Missouri State, discusses ways to enjoy fall and holiday meals without packing on extra pounds. Her advice focuses on striking a balance between indulging in holiday foods and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Maintaining Healthy Holiday Habits
With the abundance of special treats and meals during this time, Cervantes suggests mindful eating as a key strategy. By remaining aware of portion sizes and savoring favorite dishes in moderation, families can enjoy holiday comfort food while minimizing the risk of holiday weight gain.
Strategies for a Healthy Holiday Season
- Portion Control: Rather than restricting yourself, practice portion control when enjoying holiday foods. Taking smaller servings allows you to taste a variety of dishes without overeating.
- Mindful Choices: Prioritize your favorite holiday meals and select them thoughtfully. Balancing indulgent dishes with healthier options can support your holiday nutrition goals.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues to avoid eating beyond satisfaction during holiday gatherings.
Staying on Track Amid Holiday Gatherings
It's easy to let healthy habits slip during the holiday season. Cervantes emphasizes that planning ahead and remaining conscious of choices can help maintain a healthy holiday diet without feeling deprived. Enjoying the holiday meals and experiences is possible without an all-or-nothing approach to eating.
Balancing Comfort Food and Health
Comfort foods are a cherished part of holiday traditions. According to Cervantes, embracing these foods in moderation and combining them with regular activity can make the season enjoyable while minimizing the chances of holiday weight gain.
Conclusion
As families look forward to celebrating with their favorite holiday foods, registered dietitian Charlotte Cervantes says it's possible to enjoy the holiday season without jeopardizing health goals. With a mindful approach to eating, portions, and choices, the holidays can be both festive and healthy.
Source: missourinet.com.
