It’s easy to get tempted by all the yummy and decadent foods being offered throughout the holidays. However, those that are focused on a healthy lifestyle, the holidays don’t have to be derailed by the buffet table at the office party or a neighbor’s annual cookie party. The Traina family offers the following tips for maintaining a fruit-forward diet this season and starting the New Year off light!

Plan Ahead — Many people make poor food choices or end up indulging on foods they weren’t planning on simply because of that — lack of planning. When people make time to plan their meals out and “map out” what they are going to eat for the day, it’s much easier to stay on track. Whether it’s meal prepping for the week, throwing some Traina® Home Grown fruitons® into a purse, backpack or briefcase to fend off a craving or packing a lunch or preparing dinners in the crockpot, planning ahead goes a long way! 

Maintain a Routine — Keeping up with a regular routine when it comes to everything from grocery shopping for fresh produce to snack on to exercising is another great way to combat those holiday temptations. For those that are feeling less than motivated, recruit a buddy to meal share with or hit the gym with on a regular basis throughout the holidays. A bonus is that exercise provides a mental clarity that can help combat the stress of the season!

Allow for Indulgences — Tis the season! For many, the season is about celebrating… and regardless of what is being celebrated, it’s okay to indulge every now and then! Make the indulgence really worth it (a slice of Grandma’s famous pie after Christmas dinner or a few sugar cookies at the cookie exchange) and enjoy it! Then move on. 

Bring Something Along — A great way to ensure there is something fresh and healthy to eat at an office bash or holiday get together is to bring it! With so many delicious recipes that include delicious produce and whole foods, there’s no reason that the buffet table has to only be filled with “off limits” or unhealthy foods. Any host is sure to appreciate a contribution, too!

The Traina family encourages people to keep a fruit-forward mentality in mind this season! For inspiration, Traina Home Grown offers a number of ideas and recipes here.