Healthy Holiday Eating

Topics:

Nutrition

Food is everywhere during the holiday season, making it tough to stick to your healthful eating and exercise plans. With a little attention, however, you can make it through the holidays without losing track of your healthy lifestyle.

How much weight do most people gain between Thanksgiving and New Years?

Believe it or not most people only gain one pound between Thanksgiving and New Years. If that doesn’t sound like a lot, remember it adds up over time. If that weight gain isn’t lost, in 10 years you’ll be up 10 pounds and that’s just from the holiday season!

What can I do to prevent gaining weight this holiday season?

Aim for weight maintenance not weight loss over the holidays. Continue to eat well and exercise regularly. This will allow you to splurge on a few holiday treats here and there without going overboard. Remember, a holiday lasts for one day, so treat yourself that day and then get back on track tomorrow!

Are there any tricks to help me not over eat at holiday parties?

Here are some tricks and tips to keep you on track even at the biggest holiday bash!

Survey the entire table before you take any food

Decide what foods are worth eating. Only splurge on foods that are special for the holiday and aren’t around all year.
Eat a snack before you leave home

(an apple or a handful of nuts), NEVER arrive at a party/dinner starving, you’ll be more likely to overindulge.
Eat your calories don’t drink them

Avoid punches, eggnogs, and mixed drinks that can have up to 500 calories per cup! Instead enjoy a glass of champagne (85 calories per serving), wine (100 calories per 5 oz.) or non-alcoholic calorie-free drinks like diet sodas, water or seltzer.
Include Healthy Foods

When you are the host or hostess, include nutritious and healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean meats on the menu. When you are a guest, bring along a lower-calorie side dish to share.
Don’t linger near the buffet!

Find a comfortable spot across the room and focus on people instead of food.
Watch your portion sizes

Take one cocktail napkin (the small square) or a cocktail plate and fill it with 4 or 5 appetizers and call it a day. If it can’t fit on the plate or napkin, you can’t have it.
Drop out of the “clean plate club”.

Leave a few bites behind every time you eat.
Enjoy your favorite holiday treats in moderation and say no to leftovers and doggy bags.