Tis the season for holiday entertaining and eating! The average person gains 2-3 pounds over the holiday. From office parties to family potlucks, every event involves food. Weather its decadent desserts or holiday oeuvres, avoidance will help you keep control of your diet. Pre plan your holiday dietary survival guide, and use these tips to keep you on track.
Tips to Keep You on Track
- Eat a salad before the party or event. Vegetables fill you up and are low in fat and calories.
- Sip water at the party instead of alcohol. Water is a calorie and fat free beverage.
- Focus on socializing rather than eating. Mix and mingle with your back towards the food.
- Fill your plate with your favorite low fat favorites. Look for the veggie tray.
- Eat until satisfied never stuffed. No need to indulge in seconds.
If you’re hungry, look for the fruit and vegetable tray. Produce is low in calories and always the healthiest choice. Some other low fat snacks include pita bread, whole grain crackers, fresh nuts, and low fat dips. Stay away from high fat cheeses, appetizers, desserts, white bread and crackers. These foods are high in fat and calories, and promote weight gain.
Most festive events include food and drink. Alcoholic beverages promote weight gain and have toxifying effects on the body. When over consumed, alcohol can be damaging to the nervous system and liver. From a weight loss point of view the best alcoholic beverages to consume are: 100 calorie coolers, light beer, white and red wine. For mixed drinks try gin and tonic, or vodka and light cranberry juice. To save even more calories drink a glass of water in between each alcoholic drink, or volunteer to be a sober driver.
The majority of holiday parties revolve around food. This year why not try to socialize more than eat. After all, it is the time of year to escape the office and get to know your co workers better. This year enjoy the holiday season with co workers, family and healthy portion controlled food. Be proud of your healthy diet, and perhaps your co workers will notice your leaner new look.
Do you have a holiday tip to share? Maybe you made your favorite holiday recipe into a lighter one, or have tips to share about cooking vegetable side dishes. Email your holiday recipes to info@rachellewood.ca, and please post holiday tips in the page comment box.