Relax and celebrate healthfully this holiday. Don’t think you can with all of the parties, buffets, treats and drinks this time of year? Think again! Our favorite survival tips and tricks will help you navigate the dreaded holiday havoc.
Never go to a party hungry! Keep hunger at bay with a small, healthy snack before you leave.
Begin with vegetables and fruits. Keeps dips, dressings, and spreads on the side.
Once there, avoid fried and oily-looking foods. Trim excess fat from meats and go easy on the cheese and nuts.
Choose whole grains when possible.
Eat only what you love. Don’t “waist” calories on mediocre food. If you can take it or leave it…leave it!
Savor the flavors and aromas of your food. Eat slowly to give your body time to feel satisfied without overdoing it.
Move away from the food to mingle and socialize, avoiding the temptation to over-indulge.
Plan ahead. If you know you’ll be indulging later, avoid heavy, fatty, sugary foods during the day. Load up on fresh vegetables, vegetable soups, salads and fresh fruits instead.
Here’s what to choose when facing the “big buffet.”
Baked, broiled or grilled fish, chicken, turkey or lean meats
Shrimp cocktail
Raw veggies with hummus, bean dip or light dressing
Fresh salad greens with olive oil and vinegar or lemon wedges
Steamed or sautéed veggies
Cooked greens such as spinach
Potatoes, rice or grains not floating in oil or butter (opt for a baked potato that you can garnish on your own)
See something you can’t live without? Go for a small bite instead of a meal-sized portion
Don’t be shy about bringing healthy snacks and beverages to work and parties. Others will appreciate your efforts.
If all of our best intentions go awry and you do overdo it, no big deal! You can get back on track with the very next meal.
If you’ve got some helpful hints, we’d love to know.
