Manila — For Filipinos, the holiday season is all about joyful celebrations and family reunions around dinner tables. Gathering with family and friends is a cherished tradition. As you indulge in the season’s festivities, why not embrace a healthier lifestyle that lets you enjoy every moment—without compromising your well-being?

Findings from the recent Herbalife’s Asia Pacific Holiday Eating Survey revealed that 60% of Filipino respondents agreed that they find themselves being less healthy than usual as the end of the year approaches, with over 40% agreeing to not eating balanced meals and having unhealthy food. This year, Herbalife, a premier health and wellness company and community, shares practical tips to help you make mindful choices and stay energized throughout the holidays.

Mindful Eating and Healthy Holiday Feasts

Big feasts are a vital part of Filipino holiday gatherings, but learning to enjoy them mindfully is key. You can learn to savor your favorite festive dishes in moderation by being conscious of portion sizes and eating slowly. When you take time to enjoy each bite, you can keep unnecessary weight gain at bay.[1]

You can also transform your holiday favorites with healthier alternatives.[2] Choose leaner cuts of meat for dishes like lechon, replace refined sugar with natural sweeteners in desserts like kakanin, or use low-fat coconut milk in ginataang recipes. These simple swaps enhance the nutrition of your beloved dishes while keeping their flavors intact.

When serving yourself at family gatherings, fill half of your plate with vegetables for fiber and healthy carbs.[3] Make fish your go-to protein choice, as it’s rich in Omega-3, which supports healthy cholesterol levels while being satisfying and flavorful.[4]

Susan Bowerman, Senior Director of Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training at Herbalife recommends, “Enjoy your holiday favorites, but be mindful of portions. By making small changes to traditional recipes like choosing leaner cuts of meat and less salt, you can still enjoy the holiday dishes without compromising your health.”[5]

Hydration and Balanced Nutrition

Filipino celebrations often feature a range of sweets and beverages like soda and coffee. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking water between sweet treats and cups of coffee. Keeping up your water intake helps maintain energy and prevents dehydration symptoms like fatigue and headaches.[6]

In some gatherings, the holidays are an opportunity to enjoy a drink or two with your loved ones. If you enjoy the occasional drink, pace yourself by alternating alcoholic beverages with calorie-free drinks. Sparkling mineral water with a slice of lime can be a festive and refreshing option.[7]

In between the big meals, family members often share lots of sweet treats and snacks. When those cravings hit, reach for fresh fruits or healthier options like nuts and vegetables. Balance indulgent treats with nutritious choices to get essential vitamins and nutrients while enjoying the celebrations. [8]

Staying Physically Active as a Family

The holiday rush can make it challenging to stay active. More than 45% of Filipinos find themselves not exercising regularly as the end of the year approaches.[9] As you indulge in the season’s festivities, why not embrace a healthier lifestyle that lets you enjoy every moment—without compromising your well-being?

Fit in quick workouts during quiet mornings or use the holidays to start new habits with your family. Staying active doesn’t have to be complicated—focusing on movement everyone can enjoy.

Start new holiday traditions to introduce healthy habits for your families for the new year. Encourage your family to take walks around your local parks, and to find activities that encourage getting in touch with nature. These simple habit-forming activities can encourage our family members to stay active beyond the holidays.[10]

Herbalife invites Filipino families to celebrate with balance, joy, and good health this season. Adopting simple yet effective habits can create lasting traditions that prioritize well-being without losing the season’s spirit.

[1] Enjoy the holidays without adding inches to your waist. Enjoy the Holidays Without Adding Inches to Your Waist – Blog. (n.d.). https://articles.myherbalife.com/en-us/content/enjoy-the-holidays-without-adding-inches-to-your-waist?scheme=%2Fpublic

[2] Bowerman, S. (n.d.). 5 tips to avoid weight gain this holiday. 5 Tips To Avoid Weight Gain This Holiday – Blog. https://articles.myherbalife.com/en-us/content/5-tips-to-avoid-weight-gain-this-holiday?scheme=%2Fpublic

[3] Food Nutrients: Functions and Importance in a Healthy Diet. Herbalife. (2023, July 26). https://www.herbalife.com/en-ph/wellness-resources/articles/food-nutrients-healthy-diet-nourish-body

[4] Omega-3 fatty acids: Benefits and supplements. my Herbalife. (n.d.). https://www.myherbalife.com/Content/en-US/pdf/toolsAndTraining/ingredients/120514_Omega-3_Fatty_Acids_Fact_Sheet_usen.pdf

[5] Bowerman, S. (n.d.). 5 tips to avoid weight gain this holiday. 5 Tips To Avoid Weight Gain This Holiday – Blog. https://articles.myherbalife.com/en-us/content/5-tips-to-avoid-weight-gain-this-holiday?scheme=%2Fpublic

[6] Herbashopstg. (2023, July 26). The importance of hydration for your health: How herbalife products can help. Herba Health Shop UK. https://herbahealthshop.com/blog/the-importance-of-hydration-for-your-health-how-herbalife-products-can-help/?srsltid=AfmBOoqD7iNDZwWCcwlGZ9hPs1HywXC0nYgf11TPRxWqolQLPCDxN9AS

[7] Bowerman, S. (n.d.). 5 tips to avoid weight gain this holiday. 5 Tips To Avoid Weight Gain This Holiday – Blog. https://articles.myherbalife.com/en-us/content/5-tips-to-avoid-weight-gain-this-holiday?scheme=%2Fpublic

[8] Bowerman, S. (n.d.). 5 tips to avoid weight gain this holiday. 5 Tips To Avoid Weight Gain This Holiday – Blog. https://articles.myherbalife.com/en-us/content/5-tips-to-avoid-weight-gain-this-holiday?scheme=%2Fpublic

[9] Herbalife’s Asia Pacific Holiday Eating Survey

[10] Spring Vacation: Beat boredom and keep the family active. Spring Vacation: Beat Boredom and Keep the Family Active – Blog. (n.d.). https://articles.myherbalife.com/en-us/content/spring-vacation-beat-boredom-and-keep-the-family-active?scheme=%2Fpublic