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Easy Tips to Stay On Track During the Holidays

December 9, 2014 by A Savory Feast 67 Comments

If you have been working hard to stay in shape and get healthy this year, you don’t want to throw it all away during the holidays! It can be difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle this time of year, but I’ve got a few easy tips to help you keep those pounds off!

5 Easy Tips to Stay on Track During the Holidays

This post was sponsored by Luna Bar. However, these tips and my love for the new Gluten Free Luna Bar is all my own.

Last year Andrew and I made a few changes to our diets to be healthier. This year, we both started going to the gym and made even more changes. I have felt so much better, and I definitely want to keep it up!

It’s hard for me to eat healthy during the holidays. I don’t want to completely deprive myself of all of my favorite holiday treats. So in order to stay healthy, I came up with a plan of action so that I can indulge here and there, without setting myself back.

1. Choose a handful of days where you can indulge, and stay strong the other days.

If you don’t want to miss out on the delicious food and desserts at a holiday party or during your family celebrations, plan ahead of time when you will have a “cheat day” and stay strong the rest of the time! Andrew and I are being extra conscious about making healthy dinners and not eating out as much.

2. Stock up on healthy snacks.

If your house is like mine, you probably have way too many holiday cookies and candies tempting you this time of year. I’ve found that when I have healthy snacks in the house, it’s easier to avoid the sugary ones.

Luna Bars

One of my go-to snacks is a delicious Luna Bar (which are now gluten free!). They are the perfect thing to eat before heading to the gym. They fuel my workout and hold me over until dinner time. I have a hard time finding a bar that tastes good and is good for me. But Luna Bar is one of my favorites!

3. Don’t drink your calories.

Those red Starbucks cups always tempt me with their delicious holiday drinks. And it can be hard to resist a cup of hot cocoa on a cold night, or a holiday drink at a party. Going back to tip #1, pick a couple days where you can indulge in these drinks, and stick to water the rest of the time.

If you don’t like to drink plain water, you can try making infused water using fruits and vegetables! It’s good for you and makes it so much easier to drink enough water each day.

4. Don’t skip your workouts. 

This is so important! It can be easy to get busy during the holidays, but make working out a priority. Even if you can’t do as long of a workout as usual, try to do a little each day.

You can also squeeze in extra calorie-burning activities wherever you can. Walk a little faster when you are doing your holiday shopping. Take the stairs more often. Dance to Christmas music! Every little bit helps.

5. Bring healthy dishes to holiday parties.

When you attend a holiday party, see if you can bring an appetizer or side dish. Having at least one healthy dish to munch on will help you resist the heavier appetizers and that extra cookie.

What are some of the ways that you stay on track during the holidays? 

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Filed Under: Product Reviews Tagged With: avoiding weight gain during the holidays, gluten free luna bar, healthy tips for the holidays, how to stay on track during the holidays, luna bars

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Comments

  1. Bethany Floyd says

    December 9, 2014 at 8:31 am

    These are all great ideas because it can be so hard this time of year. It really does help to plan ahead and already have the groceries on hand that are healthier to keep you from making wrong food choices.

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 9, 2014 at 8:59 am

      Planning ahead is key! If I don’t have healthy food to eat, I am way more likely to eat the bad stuff.

      Reply
  2. Sarah Potts says

    December 9, 2014 at 8:56 am

    Such great ideas, especially during this time of year! I’m really trying to focus on not skipping workouts especially when traveling because it’s so easy too!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 9, 2014 at 9:00 am

      You can do it! You can find fun activities to do while traveling, such as hiking or ice skating.

      Reply
  3. Hannah Diane says

    December 9, 2014 at 9:00 am

    These are great tips!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 9, 2014 at 9:19 am

      Thank you! They are really easy to put into action, too.

      Reply
  4. Jill Hardt says

    December 9, 2014 at 11:00 am

    Great tips! I’m having a hard time because I’m still recovering from surgery so I’m not being physically active at all (though I should get back into it slowly), and I’ve been indulging in so many holiday treats with no end in sight. BAD COMBO. But kinda good, too. Just trying to go easy on myself and slowly ease back into some healthier habits. These tips are exactly what I need to keep in mind!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 9, 2014 at 3:33 pm

      Putting these tips into practice should help. I hope your recovery goes smoothly!

      Reply
  5. Gennie says

    December 9, 2014 at 12:31 pm

    These are amazing tips! I’m having a hard time with keeping on track during this holiday season because of an injury, so these are very important for me. And those Luna bars are so good!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 9, 2014 at 3:33 pm

      Keeping a stash of Luna Bars will help for sure!

      Reply
  6. Mandy says

    December 9, 2014 at 1:23 pm

    Love this list! Drinking my calories is my worst holiday offense and it’s something I need to focus on getting better about. Thanks for the encouragement!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 9, 2014 at 3:34 pm

      I am terrible about it! I used to drink Starbucks all the time, but I cut way back to save money. It saves a lot of calories and sugar, too.

      Reply
  7. Rebecca says

    December 9, 2014 at 3:37 pm

    Love this!! I ALWAYS struggle during the holidays so I’m going to definitely be using these tips. I am especially excited about bringing my own dishes and desserts so I at least have some inkling of say over how much sugar I scarf down. Thank you for this!!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 7:58 am

      That tip is so helpful for me! I love to munch on appetizers at a party, and if there are some veggies or other healthy options, I’ll choose those.

      Reply
  8. Catheryn Cervantes says

    December 9, 2014 at 4:27 pm

    All great tips especially regarding drinking your calories. And the Luna bar had me at Chocolate cupcake 😉

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 7:59 am

      The Chocolate Cupcake flavor is so good! It’s like having dessert, so that helps with cravings, too.

      Reply
  9. Chelsea says

    December 9, 2014 at 4:36 pm

    I always have snacks on hand like these bars for when I’m out for long periods of time doing Christmas shopping and whatnot! It definitely helps me get everything done without getting hangry, haha.

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 7:59 am

      It’s not pretty when I get hangry! The Luna Bars are great because they can go anywhere.

      Reply
  10. Kayli Schattner says

    December 9, 2014 at 4:47 pm

    Excellent tips! I try to have one small treat a day/indulge in cravings in a small way. For instance, if I’m craving a cookie I have in the pantry, I let myself have one so I don’t end up giving in late at night and eating 5 in one sitting!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:00 am

      That’s smart! I should try that. Usually I am just thinking about sweets all day and then finally give in and have a big dessert.

      Reply
  11. Heather says

    December 9, 2014 at 5:01 pm

    Great tips! I normally just make an exception to only indulge on the actually holidays or at parties and try not to drink too many calories and just absolutely not skip my workouts, but this year, I’m pregnant so I’m just being a bum! 😉

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:01 am

      You definitely have a pass, then! Have a very Merry Christmas.

      Reply
  12. Sarah @ 12 Twenty Seven says

    December 9, 2014 at 5:59 pm

    Great tips, Jenna! I love Luna Bars–they are so good and those flavors make me feel like I’m cheating just a bit! 🙂

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:01 am

      Yes! The Chocolate Cupcake flavor is my favorite because it helps me curb the chocolate cravings.

      Reply
  13. Brenda says

    December 9, 2014 at 6:34 pm

    Some great tips! I definitely try going for lower calorie versions of my favorite holidays drinks!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:02 am

      That’s a great idea! Sometimes you just have to indulge in a holiday drink, so it’s nice to be able to find healthier options.

      Reply
  14. Cara of Stylish+Geek Blog says

    December 9, 2014 at 6:46 pm

    Don’t drink your calories….such great advice! Those caramel machiattos really add up…even the Jamba Juices! Thanks for the healthy reminders by your post. I also love Luna Bars. Lemon Zest is my fave! 🙂

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:03 am

      I’ve been hearing a lot about the Lemon Zest, and I think I need to try it! It sounds delicious.

      Reply
  15. Alexis of StyleLogical says

    December 9, 2014 at 7:37 pm

    Love this list. I think a lot of people don’t realize how many calories they’re consuming in their beverages! Just plain water for me. That way I can eat more pie!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:03 am

      I try to stick with water as much as possible, too. I saw the Starbuck’s nutrition facts once and it was scary!

      Reply
  16. Shannon Gillilan says

    December 9, 2014 at 9:08 pm

    Great tips! It is a great feeling when you stick to your goals 🙂

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:04 am

      I love that feeling! I’ve been doing really good, so I don’t want to set myself back over the holidays.

      Reply
  17. Chelley Martinka says

    December 9, 2014 at 9:14 pm

    These are great tips! This time of year I tend to over do it and drink my calories, no doubt. I ned to be more aware of the nog!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:05 am

      Usually I don’t have a problem with drinking my calories, except during the holidays. The egg nog, hot cocoa, Starbucks and other holiday drinks are just so good!

      Reply
  18. Michelle Webber says

    December 9, 2014 at 9:29 pm

    Great tips! Thank you so much! 🙂

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:05 am

      Of course! I’m glad to be able to share.

      Reply
  19. Melissa says

    December 9, 2014 at 9:48 pm

    Wonderful tips! I definitely need to keep this in mind, I tend to over eat during the holidays. Need to schedule some time for working out!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:06 am

      Being active helps in more ways than one! It’s also great because when you are regularly working out you are more likely to eat better, too.

      Reply
  20. Megan says

    December 9, 2014 at 10:18 pm

    It is SO important not to let yourself stop working out during the holidays! It’s so hard to come back from it! I have a post about this coming up soon on my blog! Great post!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:07 am

      I’m excited to see your post! I just got back into going to the gym. It’s been a few months and I feel so much better! Now I just need to be sure I stick with it over the holidays.

      Reply
  21. Karissa Ancell says

    December 9, 2014 at 10:32 pm

    Great tips! I need to follow these.

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:08 am

      They are so easy to follow, too! You will feel so much better, trust me.

      Reply
  22. Mia Myrabev says

    December 9, 2014 at 10:32 pm

    Love dont drink you calories lol, i usually pay attention to my diet throughout the year so that i can indulge during christmas lol

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:08 am

      I have a tough time getting back to eating healthy after the holidays if I let myself go too much! But I’m glad that tactic works for you.

      Reply
  23. Summer @ Coffee With S says

    December 9, 2014 at 11:22 pm

    My roommate is gluten free and she loves Luna Bars! I’ll have to try them – I am assuming they’re similar to Larabars? I love the not drinking your calories point, because that is where I really fail, especially this time of year!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:09 am

      I have been trying to avoid gluten because it makes me gain weight faster. These Luna Bars are great and they are similar to Larabars. Delicious!

      Reply
  24. mandy @a sorta fairytale says

    December 10, 2014 at 12:23 am

    My kids and I LOVE Luna bars!!! Great tips!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:10 am

      I’m stocking up on them to be sure I stay away from the sugary treats as much as possible. I’m glad to hear you and your family love them, too.

      Reply
  25. Katie says

    December 10, 2014 at 6:14 am

    Oh gosh I’m, so useless. I eat really healthily, but it’s the lack of exercise that gets me! I really need to find a proper plan that works for me!

    Katie <3

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 8:11 am

      It can be really tough to get into a routine! I started listening to audio books when I go to the gym, and it gets me more excited about going.

      Reply
  26. ahealthier fitterme says

    December 10, 2014 at 10:26 am

    Love Luna bars… would not have them every day but they are tasty ;o)

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 4:27 pm

      They are so good! I’ve been trying to avoid gluten so it’s nice that these bars are gluten free.

      Reply
  27. Ashley says

    December 10, 2014 at 3:34 pm

    Those are such great tips. I especially love the one about thinking about your cheat days ahead of time and trying to stick to being super healthy the other days. It totally makes you not feel as guilty when you do indulge at the company Christmas party!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 10, 2014 at 4:28 pm

      Planning ahead is key! I don’t want to miss out on a few of my favorite treats and drinks, so I plan ahead.

      Reply
  28. lauriel says

    December 11, 2014 at 7:25 am

    Good reminders! And I love Luna bars! Happily, I’ve been traveling for the past few weeks, so I haven’t been tempted by holiday parties too much. And then when I get home, I’ll just be happy to rest and drink soup… 😛 And looking forward to getting back to the gym (I’m a daily gym rat)… glad that you’re helping spread healthy awareness!

    xo,
    lauriel

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 11, 2014 at 8:12 am

      I go to the gym almost every day, too. It helps me reset between work and my night. And I feel so much better when I go!

      Reply
  29. Jenna Brussee says

    December 11, 2014 at 8:12 am

    I just learned that tip this year. It is so helpful!

    Reply
  30. Ashley Taylor says

    December 11, 2014 at 12:45 pm

    I need to remember these. Its so hard to stay on track during this time of year.

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 12, 2014 at 3:44 pm

      If you plan ahead and follow a few simple tips like these, it doesn’t have to be so hard! Be sure to let yourself indulge a little, but stay strong the rest of the days.

      Reply
  31. Nancy says

    December 11, 2014 at 3:00 pm

    Oh man Luna bars are good. I try not to buy too many of the snack bars whether they claim to be healthy or not, but it’s so good to carry around if you’re out all day and need something to eat to tie you over.

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 12, 2014 at 3:45 pm

      I always check ingredients on snack bars! These are better for you since they are gluten free, but still have the carbs and sugar. If you are working out, it’s the perfect fuel though.

      Reply
  32. Jenn says

    December 12, 2014 at 8:00 pm

    These are great tips and I’m dying to try the new GF version of the Luna bars!

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 15, 2014 at 8:38 am

      You will love them! Definitely try the Chocolate Cupcake flavor.

      Reply
  33. Camesha says

    December 14, 2014 at 11:45 pm

    These are great tips. Luna bars are yummy goodness. My friend was just telling me that she keeps Luna bars in her purse for when she’s doing a lot of running with the kids.

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 15, 2014 at 8:40 am

      That’s a great idea! It’s nice to have a better-for-you snack so you don’t resort to a fast food snack.

      Reply
  34. Megan Walker says

    December 15, 2014 at 8:41 pm

    I also try to limit portions, which helps me stay on track! That’s always been my go-to trick for maintaining weight.

    Reply
    • Jenna Brussee says

      December 16, 2014 at 7:56 am

      That’s a smart tip, too. Sometimes I feel like I already had one cookie, so why not eat more? But it really does help to limit myself.

      Reply

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