Savor the Holidays:
Tips for Healthy Eating
With any holiday celebration comes an abundance of eating occasions, including parties, dinners, and festive celebrations. These gatherings can pose challenges for weight control. However, savoring the holidays is a part of our tradition and is not to be missed. Thus, being mindful of healthy eating practices, you can make the transition to the New Year guilt-free. Here are some simple eating tips for enjoying holiday food and controlling calories throughout the season. The goal is to not gain weight and, yet, join in the holiday fun.
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Plan ahead and eat lightly throughout the day before a holiday party; don't go to a party hungry. Eat something filling but low in calories right before you go to the party. Then you won't be tempted to overeat because you won't be so hungry.
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Portion control is essential to calorie control. So, take small portions of foods. By doing this, you can enjoy a little bit of everything and not feel deprived.
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Using the smallest plate available helps with calorie control and gives you the impression of having no food restrictions.
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Be keenly aware of all foods and beverages consumed. Focus on the festivities, not the food.
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Eating slowly helps control calorie intake. When you are full, stop eating.
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Avoid second helpings.
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Choose lower-calorie or calorie-free beverages such as fruit juice/punches, diet sodas, or sparkling water. Limit your intake of eggnog and alcoholic beverages. Focus on low-calorie fresh fruits and vegetables in place of high-calorie, energy-dense foods such as fried appetizers, chips, and rich desserts.
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For food preparation, strive to decrease calories in all dishes you prepare. A simple way is to decrease fat in the recipe. Substitute applesauce and pureed dried plums for butter in baked goods. Use an artificial sweetener, such as SPLENDA®, where possible. Skim fat from sauces and gravies before serving.
These tips can help promote a healthy and enjoyable holiday season. If you keep these tips in mind when you are hosting a party, your guests will enjoy themselves and not overindulge.