Actress and author Danica McKellar has revealed her approach to beating holiday weight gain as she embraces her 50s. In an interview with Fox News Digital, McKellar shared a straightforward rule for indulging in desserts: she only allows herself to enjoy sweets after filling up on healthy foods. This strategy not only helps her manage cravings but also ensures that she makes healthier choices overall.
“My secret — one of my secrets — is that I don’t eat dessert or anything that’s bad for me until I’m totally full with all the healthy stuff,” McKellar explained. She emphasized that after enjoying nutritious meals, she allows herself a couple of bites of dessert if she still feels hungry. This method keeps her from eating unhealthy foods out of sheer hunger, promoting a more balanced approach to indulgence.
McKellar, known for her role in “The Wonder Years,” also discussed her perspective on New Year’s resolutions. She prefers to focus on daily self-improvement rather than setting specific goals for the new year. “Every day I try to just resolve to be the best person I can be, to do what God wants me to do,” she stated, highlighting her commitment to personal growth.
New Christmas Movie and Ongoing Projects
Her latest film, “Have We Met This Christmas?”, is set to premiere on December 13, 2023, on Great American Family and will also be available for streaming on Great American Pure Flix. Not only does she star in the film, but she also wrote it, marking her feature writing debut. McKellar expressed excitement about incorporating themes of faith and forgiveness into the holiday movie, noting their significance during the Christmas season.
In addition to her film work, McKellar recently published her twelfth children’s book titled “I Love You 100: A Counting Book Full of Love.” This project reflects her ongoing commitment to education and storytelling, particularly for young audiences.
Dietary Choices and Staying Fit
When it comes to maintaining her health, McKellar described her diet as “very boring,” underscoring that her primary focus is hydration. “My number one secret to staying fit, healthy, and youthful is drinking lots of water,” she shared. Her dietary restrictions include avoiding alcohol, coffee, and soda, as well as steering clear of gluten and dairy. She emphasizes cooking at home to control ingredients, stating, “I cook dinner every night — well, every other night, so we can have leftovers.”
While on set, McKellar adapts her cooking routines to ensure she maintains her healthy lifestyle. She keeps an instant pot and a rice cooker in her hotel room, allowing her to prepare nutritious meals with ease. “I make my own chicken. I bring a rice cooker, I make my own brown rice, I steam vegetables, a little salt, pepper, olive oil. It’s so good, it’s very tasty, and it’s very healthy,” she explained.
To combat temptations, McKellar employs a mental strategy. She reminds herself that by resisting unhealthy foods, she is “earning all the things I love about feeling good and feeling fit and healthy.” This positive reinforcement helps her stay committed to her health goals, even during the challenging holiday season.
McKellar’s insights not only provide a glimpse into her personal health philosophy but also serve as inspiration for others looking to maintain their well-being during the festive period. As she continues to balance her career and personal life, her approach highlights the importance of mindful eating and staying true to one’s health commitments.
