Making Healthier Holiday Food Choices
The holidays are often a time of excesses and overindulgence; too much shopping, too much celebrating, and way too many calories. You may not be able to reduce your spending or avoid the social whirl, but there are strategies that keep you from blowing your diet completely. Here are some suggestions for avoiding holiday weight gain while still enjoying the festivities.
Don’t Go to a Holiday Gathering with an Empty Stomach
You may consider saving calories by skipping breakfast or lunch on the day of the party, but it’s not the wisest plan. If you go to the festivities with your stomach rumbling, all that food will appear even more irresistible. You’ll be less tempted to overindulge if you eat a healthy snack before you leave home. Have some fresh fruit, yogurt, cheese, or veggie sticks before heading to the party.
Use Portion Control
You shouldn’t deprive yourself of enjoying holiday treats all together. After looking over the selections, decide what you really want to try and go ahead and indulge. Just do it in moderation. By restricting yourself to petite portions, you can try everything you want without overdoing it.
Liquid Calories Do Count
Be aware of what you’re drinking. Alcohol in general has loads of calories but no nutrition, so choose your beverages wisely. Avoid holiday drinks like eggnog that are thick and creamy because they are calorie laden. Drinks like white wine or cocktails made with gin or vodka are lower in calories than most choices. You can also cut down on the calorie count by mixing your drinks with diet soda or sparkling water.
Offer to Bring a Healthy Dish
Tell the host you’d like to bring a dish as your contribution to the festivities and then choose a healthy option. Bring a plate of fresh veggies and low fat dip, a platter of fresh fruit, or a colorful salad. It’s a nice gesture and insures that you will have something nutritious to snack on.
Eat Slowly
Eating should be a pleasure, not a race. Take small bites and savor each one. Try to be the last one finished with each course. Remember, it usually takes about 20 minutes for your brain to send the message to your stomach that you are full.
Focus on the People, Not the Food
Instead of concentrating on the food provided, keep your attention on the company you’re in. Reminisce with old friends and get acquainted with new ones. Listen to other people’s stories and share some of your own. After all, you can eat anytime, but how often do you get to spend special times with family and friends?
If your goal is to make it through the holidays without gaining weight, you can succeed. Plan ahead, use the tips provided here, and enjoy a happy, healthy holiday.
About the Author: Trinity Latine knows how difficult the holiday season can be for those who are dieting or simply trying to stay in better shape. Follow these simple tips and you’ll be able to worry less about your wine calories while enjoying time with family and friends.
Related posts:
Comments