Stay Healthy This Christmas: Holiday Eating Hacks You’ll Love
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
The “-ber” months in the Philippines are always filled with food, family gatherings, and endless celebrations. From Noche Buena to New Year’s Eve, there’s always a feast waiting at the table. But along with the joy of eating comes the all-too-familiar guilt, “Did I eat too much lechon?” or “Should I have skipped that extra slice of cake?”
The truth is, food is a big part of how we celebrate, and there’s no need to punish yourself for enjoying the season. What matters is learning how to strike a balance between savoring your favorite dishes and making choices that support your health.
Here are a few practical tips to help you enjoy holiday meals without the guilt.
1. Don’t Skip Meals Before a Party
It’s tempting to “save space” by skipping breakfast or lunch, but this often backfires. Arriving at a party overly hungry makes you more likely to overeat. Eating small, balanced meals throughout the day helps keep your hunger in check and prevents bingeing.
According to the CDC, skipping meals can lead to overeating later and lower energy levels.
2. Build a Balanced Plate
A simple trick: fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables, one-quarter with lean protein (like chicken, fish, or tofu), and the last quarter with carbs (like rice, pasta, or bread). This way, you still enjoy everything but in healthy proportions.
The Mayo Clinic suggests using the “healthy plate method” for better portion control.
3. Savor Your Food (Mindful Eating)
The holidays can feel rushed, but slowing down while you eat makes a huge difference. Take smaller bites, chew well, and really enjoy the flavors. Eating mindfully not only enhances the experience but also gives your body time to recognize when it’s full.
Studies show mindful eating can help reduce overeating and improve digestion.
Instead of stressing over every calorie, focus on balance, portion control, and mindful choices. If you need extra support in managing your health during the holiday rush, you can always consult a doctor online through the Doctor Anywhere app — available 24/7 for your convenience.
Our general practitioners are available 24/7, with an average waiting time of less than five minutes. You can also book appointments with our specialists, including ENT specialists, and mental health experts.
You may also consider subscribing to our affordable annual health plan, DA Healthwise. For just ₱99 per year, you’ll get discounted video consultations with our primary care doctors, plus access to specialists and mental health experts. You’ll also unlock DA Perks, where you can enjoy exclusive offers from trusted health and wellness brands, including Garmin, MyHealth Clinic, Tamang Alaga (RiteMED), and more.
Have an HMO or health insurance?
Link your membership account for fully covered video consultations for you and your dependents. Doctor Anywhere’s accredited health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and insurance providers include AMAPHIL, COCOLIFE Healthcare, EastWest Healthcare, Etiqa, Flexicare, Forticare, Fortune Life, Generali, Health Maintenance, Inc. (HMI), Lacson & Lacson Insurance Brokers, Manulife HealthFlex, Manulife Medical Secure, MCBL HealthFlex, MCBL Medical Secure, Maxicare, MedAsia Philippines, Medicare Plus, SIMPLeTPA, Sun Life Grepa, and WellCare Health Maintenance. Tap here to learn more about Doctor Anywhere’s HMOs and insurance partners.
Exclusive Promo Codes: Save on Your First Video Consultation
Our healthcare providers are available daily, including weekends and holidays, ensuring you get the care you need anytime. Download the free Doctor Anywhere app and use a promo code on your first video consultation to save:
Save ₱30 on your first video consultation with a general practitioner. Use *promo code DACONSULT30.
Save ₱30 on your first video consultation with a specialist. Use **promo code DAEXPERTCARE.
Save ₱50 on your first online session with a mental health expert. Use ^promo code DAMENTALHEALTH.
Make the most out of your doctor appointments! Tap here for key reminders to help you prepare for your video consultations.
One-time use per account for the first video consultation. Valid for new Doctor Anywhere users who haven’t had a video consultation yet. Promo runs from Jan. 1, 2025 - Dec. 31, 2025. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-192282 Series of 2024. *Promo runs from May 1, 2025 - Apr. 30, 2026. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-221357 Series of 2025. ^Promo runs from June 3, 2025 to June 2, 2026. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-226338 Series of 2025. Visit https://www.doctoranywhere.ph/promos-and-discounts for more information.
Sources:
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Leo San Diego is the content creator at Doctor Anywhere Philippines, where she specializes in making health information clear and easy to understand. With nearly a decade of writing experience, she has crafted everything from corporate communications to creative content.
She works with medical professionals to know the latest health trends, and health tips. Her goal is simple: to make reliable health information accessible and helpful for everyone. Outside of work, she enjoys baking brioche and other pastries, believing that taking care of your health includes enjoying rest days and good, thoughtfully prepared food.
Comments