Healthy choices during the holidays

By Manvir Kaur

A proper diet during the holiday season has become an important subject in staying healthy.

During the holidays, people are celebrating by organizing parties and get-togethers with friends and family. It is easy to forget about personal health when it comes to eating during the festivities and endless food.

Amy Howe, owner and manager of Howe Fit, suggests that people should take on a micro diet which counts their protein and carbohydrate intake.

“People should adjust their dates if a party is coming up,” said Howe. “Make sure they get their work outs every morning, or they can eat correctly the rest of day by adjusting their workouts. To maintain a healthy lifestyle people should eat food that fills their body with the correct nutrients and follows their diet plans.”

Aiza-May Rangonton, from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, said despite attempted dieting most people do not get the proper nutrition over the holidays.

“When the upcoming party or feast is going on you should eat normally like you would at the end of the day,” said Rangonton. “Some people like to hold off on breakfast and lunch as that can help with extra room but you are skipping the meals which allows your body to get very hungry and choose higher fat and salty food on the table in front of you.”

According to Rangonton, people should fill half their plate with vegetables and salads before going to the main entree like meat or other fatty foods.

“Eat your salad first and make sure proper protein and calories are in it,” said Rangonton. “Before and after dinner physical activities are important to keep in mind: this is a great time to go for a walk and catch up with family.”

While staying aware throughout the holiday season is important, quality of life can always improve by maintaining a consistent healthy lifestyle throughout the year.