I'm sure many of you will be attending a family holiday dinner on Sunday and these occasions make it very easy to overindulge. It is not necessary to deprive yourself of many of the delicious dishes that may be put before you, however, it is a good idea to watch the amounts of these items that we are consuming.
Below are a few tips that I put together to help you get through the holiday:
1. Skipping meals before a big holiday party or holiday meal will cause you to binge on all the wrong types of food. Have a little protein, small meal with lots of fiber, or a piece of fruit before you go which will not leave you ravenous when the festivities begin.
2. Use a small salad-sized plate when choosing from the holiday table. With a larger plate you are more likely to try and fill it.
3. Balance your plate with protein and fiber-rich foods such as lean meats, salad, vegetables, and fruits. Simpler is better; shrimp cocktail, crudités (without high fat dip) are great party staples to enjoy.
4. Try to steer clear of anything that is fried, cheesy, or oily. Stay away from mayo-based salads, greasy appetizers, fatty dips, or anything deep-fried.
5. Use oil-based dressings for your salad and put them on the side. Dip the tines of your fork in them before piercing your salad for flavor. You'll save on calories but not skimp on flavor.
6. Don't deprive yourself of the goodies being served as some of these particular dishes only come once a year. Sometimes a taste is all you need to satisfy a craving.
7. Although nuts are healthy, it is very easy to eat them mindlessly and end up eating more than just a handful which adds up in calories and fat grams.
8. Don't drink your calories (save it for the food). Drink water with your meals - add a lemon or lime slice for flavor. If you want to have a holiday drink, enjoy a wine spritzer instead of wine - you'll save on calories but not substitute flavor.
9. If possible, ask if you can bring an entree or side dish - that way you can make something healthier and have control of the ingredients that are in it.
10. When socializing, try to do it away from where the food is displayed. Out of sight, out of mind.
After dinner, and if the weather is nice - go for a walk outside with some of your family and friends to continue socialize. It's like multi-tasking!
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