ON THE JOB

Brandi Powell will meet clients at local coffee shops or in their homes for personalized care and consultation.

Q: Winter holidays are a time for family get-togethers, and a lot of big meals. How can we eat right while enjoying our holiday favorites?
A: Don’t fall into the “last supper” trap and starve in preparation for a holiday gathering. Everything looks better when you’re hungry, and we tend to overdo it.
Instead, eat balanced meals throughout the day before heading to a party to prevent being overly hungry when you arrive. Also, seek out your very favorite holiday foods and leave the year-round foods behind, such as rolls and mashed potatoes, as you can enjoy those anytime.
 
Q: What are some hints for big holiday parties?
A: Take a look at everything that is available and try to create a plate that has a balance of treats and healthier foods.
Consider bringing a nutritious dish to the party, such as veggies and hummus, a colorful fruit salad or edamame.
Put your food on a plate rather than just eating from a large container; otherwise, it won’t register in your brain that you’ve eaten it. When you do eat, actually taste and enjoy your food. Avoid standing close to the buffet, which increases your chances of mindless eating. Lastly, focus on friends and family, the holidays aren’t only about food.

Q: Many people travel for the holidays. How can we eat right while out on the road?
 A: Stay on a schedule with eating. Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated. Be physically active when you’re away from home.  

Q: What should we do if we end up overeating despite our best efforts?
A: It’s important to remember that overdoing is part of normal eating, and it doesn’t have to lead to a cycle of continued over-indulgence. Don’t beat yourself up over it. Instead, make a plan to get back to regular eating the next time you’re hungry.

Learn More:

NAME: Brandi Powell
BUSINESS: Pearland-based registered dietitian who meets with clients locally
EXPERIENCE: Ten years as a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders, weight management, wellness nutrition and disease management
CERTIFICATIONS: American dietetic Association
EDUCATION: Master of Science in Nutrition from Texas Woman’s University