by Jenny Pasanen, RD
The holiday season means choosing between enjoying treats or staying on track with healthy eating, right?
Actually, you can enjoy holiday offerings and keep weight in check by making a few careful choices. These tips may help you out.
- Eat well when you’re not celebrating. Keep your house stocked with washed-and-ready fruits and vegetables.
- Bring a healthy option to potlucks. There are usually plenty of desserts and starches… bring lean protein, fruit or vegetable dishes.
- Don’t “save yourself” for that big meal later on. Have regular meals and healthy snacks throughout the day to avoid overeating in the evening.
- Ask yourself what you really want at the buffet or potluck. Use a smaller plate and eat reasonable portions of those selections to enjoy the treats you love and not feel deprived.
- “Re-gift” or freeze sweets you’d rather not eat.
- Eat slowly. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to realize you are full.
- Be assertive and say “no” politely: “Everything was delicious, but I couldn’t eat another bite!”
- If you overindulge, don’t worry about it. Just move on and eat healthy at the next meal. Don’t let it ruin your whole day.
- Alcoholic drinks can be high in calories. Try non-alcoholic lower-fat eggnogs, virgin Caesars, or sparkling water and juice spritzers. If you do drink, alternate between the alcoholic beverage and water or soda water with a slice of lemon or lime.
