The holidays are a joyous time of year filled with food, festivities and family. We can get swept up in the excitement and forget our healthy eating habits we have been working on all year long. Here is some helpful advice for the holiday season to keep you healthy and happy.
Tip #1: Do not stand near the buffet table. Once you fill your plate, step away from the table. Go eat in a different room. This way you will be less tempted to grab more food.
Tip #2: While at the party, hold your drink in your dominant hand: right hand if you're right handed, left hand if you're left handed. This will make you think twice before grabbing another cookie or bite of spinach dip.
Tip #3: Rest up the night before a holiday party by getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep. A short night’s sleep can cause adults to add an extra 300 calories and choose higher-fat, higher-calorie foods. By getting enough sleep, you’ll save calories and make healthier choices.
Tip #4: Survey the food options before you choosing anything. Your first choices will be the foods you consume in the largest quantity. Set yourself up for success by starting with something low-calorie like fresh veggies or hummus instead of a creamy dip. And, swap crackers and breads for veggies. Avoid piling on the cheese. While cheese contains protein, it can be higher in calories, especially when we are eating a lot of it.
Tip #5: Count 1-2-3 when pouring yourself a glass of wine to get an estimated five-ounce serving. Choose calorie free beverages as mixers or to drink so you can eat your calories and not drink them. Also, pay attention to your hot drinks!
Tip #6: Downsize your plate. Use an appetizer or salad plate instead of a dinner plate to decrease the amount of space on your plate. Not only will you choose less options due to the smaller plate, but you are also having yourself from overeating.
Tip #7: When it’s time to eat, eat and when it’s time to socialize, socialize. Research has shown that multitasking during meals can lead to mindlessly eating and increasing calorie consumption. If you’re chatting at a party, set your food down until you are done chatting.
Tip #8: Choose your indulgences wisely. Allow yourself to have the treats, but don’t go crazy. By allowing yourself to have a little here and there, you are less likely to overdo it.
Tip #9: Choose items that are seasonal verses those you can have year round. Focusing on the special foods this time of year will make it seem more like a treat. Save the calories for these instead.
Tip #10: Three bites and goodnight: The first bite is the best, the last the grand finale, and every bite in between is the same.
