Enjoying the Holidays Without Sacrificing Health

At Virta, we believe that enjoying the holidays doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your wellness journey, no matter what kind of plan you're on, whether that's weight loss, diabetes management, or sugar control. That’s why our team has curated a collection of easy-to-follow tips to help you navigate the holidays without compromising taste or health. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, you’ll find practical, satisfying, whole food options to bring balance to your celebrations and help you stay on track. 

Navigating social situations during the holiday season

Most major holidays and celebrations come with added temptation—potato-filled potlucks and carby cookie exchanges can cause even the most dedicated to give into temptation. Be prepared with tactics to help you make the best choices to thrive, not just survive, this holiday season!

1. Think ahead. What are the potential triggers or temptations for you in holiday situations? Thinking about them ahead of time makes you better prepared to face and successfully avoid them. Also think about what types of food might be available at any social gatherings, and what you could eat that would make you feel good ahead of time. 
2. Be prepared. Eat before you go to a holiday party—never show up hungry.  And bring your own dish that fits in with your personal weight loss, diabetes, or sugar control plan (perhaps a substitute for a traditional favorite) so you know you’ll have something there you can enjoy! More Thanksgiving-specific recipes can be found below. 
3. Focus on what you CAN and want to have. Look for the tasty options that fit in your weight loss plan. If you’re living a low-carb lifestyle like many of our members, focus on what you can have rather than identifying all of the things that you should avoid. Okay, so there are scalloped potatoes on the table, but look at those delicious deviled eggs. Change your mindset and make the best selections from what is available.
4. Let yourself indulge a little, even if it means waiting until you get home. You can always take a dessert with you that fits in with your nutrition plan. But if there’s just no time and there are no desserts available,  you can indulge in things like dark chocolate or other more weight-loss friendly treats when you get home. Or, if you’re able to enjoy a few bites without it leading to a downward spiral, go for it! Know what works best for you. 

Simple swaps for classic holiday dishes 

Give your favorite dishes a low-carb twist without losing flavor! These easy swaps keep flavors vibrant and carbs in check. On average, our members lose 31 pounds a year through our personalized nutrition approach, helping them maintain steady energy levels and support their health goals. 

• Thanksgiving-specific recipes can be found here for:some text
  • Classic mashed cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes 
  • Cauliflower ‘mac’ and cheese 
  • Cheddar and sausage stuffing 
  • No flour gravy As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us are looking forward to gathering with loved ones and savoring delicious holiday meals. However, the season's indulgences can sometimes feel at odds with our health goals. ‍

Feeling Festive? Have a drink (or two) if you want it.

Especially during the holidays, it can feel like alcohol is everywhere. But you don’t have to go cold turkey to maintain your health. 

If you drink and would like to safely indulge in a drink or two at a holiday party, there are several options that tend to be low in sugar. Drier wines, champagne, and spirits are generally good bets if you’re working to maintain your weight loss (skip the sugary mixers). Just remember that going a little overboard on alcohol can lower your inhibitions and increase the chance that you may say “yes” to those sugary desserts or foods that you might normally avoid.

Here are a few lower-sugar recipes for classic holiday drinks: 

• Moscow Mule
• Egg Nog

The Takeaway

With the right approach, the holiday season can be both joyful and health-conscious. By incorporating a few mindful strategies, you can fully enjoy your favorite traditions while staying true to your weight loss, diabetes management, or sugar control plan. We're here to support you with practical, low-carb recipes and habits that make a meaningful difference. Let’s make this holiday season about savoring every moment and every meal—keeping balance, health, and happiness at the heart of it all.

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