Healthy Nutrition Tips for Navigating the Holiday Season

Holidays and celebrations are meant to be enjoyed—not stressed over. But let’s be real. In between work parties, family dinners, and endless trays of cookies, it’s easy to feel like your healthy habits don’t stand a chance.

That’s where Nicky Mobley, MS, RDN, LD, steps in. Through the YMCA Nutrition Consultation program, Nicky shares practical nutrition tips to help you enjoy the season while staying on track with your health goals. See Nicky’s tips for feeling confident in your nutrition this holiday season—without missing out on the fun.

Understand the Details: Plan Ahead

WHERE

Restaurant or Bar: Check the menu before you go so you can choose a healthy option in advance.

Home or Office: Politely ask what will be served, or bring your own healthy dish to share with everyone.

WHAT

Homemade Meal: Find out the menu ahead of time and decide what you’ll eat before you arrive.

Holiday Potluck: Bring a plate you feel good about enjoying and sharing.

Alcohol Alternatives:

Wine → Add club soda to make it a spritzer

Beer → Look for a light option

Spirits → Choose low-calorie mixers

Pro Tip: Drink a glass of water or seltzer between alcoholic beverages to slow down and stay hydrated.

WHEN

During Work: Eat a balanced breakfast (like yogurt, fruit, and granola) so you aren’t overly hungry.

Evening Event: Have a vegetable-focused lunch before your happy hour or holiday dinner.

Pro Tip: Get a morning workout in before your evening celebration!

Set Your Intentions

Having a plan will help you feel prepared, relaxed, and present with others. Write down your intentions, such as:

“I will fill my plate once, with half vegetables.”

“I will only have one cocktail at the holiday happy hour.”

“I will allow myself one treat from the break room today.”

Pro Tip: Share your goals with a friend or spouse for accountability.

Enjoy the Celebration

Don’t deny yourself your favorites, enjoy one serving of the dishes you look forward to all year. For everything else, try these swaps:

Appetizers: Choose fruits, veggies, hummus, olives, or shrimp over fried items or processed meats.

Entrees: Fill up on vegetables first.

Sweets & Treats: Take one serving, then wait 10 minutes before deciding if you want more.

Remember Your Intentions

You created a plan, trust yourself! Focus on the company and the joy of the season. Stress less about food and drinks, and allow yourself to have fun!

Connect with a Licensed Nutritionist for Extra Support

Ready to put these tips into practice with personalized support? Visit our YMCA Nutrition Consultation webpage to learn more, read Nicky’s full bio, and register for a virtual consultation today!

Contact Nicki by phone at 704.286.6545 or email. Click the button below to register for counseling on her website.

Register For Nutrition Counseling

This blog post was written in collaboration with Nicky Mobley, MS, RDN, LD