With the holiday season fast-approaching, we look forward to parties and celebrations, seeing family and friends, and of course…the food. However, all that delicious food often comes at a cost: a few unwanted holiday pounds or inches around our waistline. Worse yet, studies show that those pounds tend to stick with us well past the holidays, or even permanently. Follow these tips to make the most of the holiday season, without tipping the scale:
If you’re planning the meal:
- Start light: Most appetizers carry lots of calories in a small package. Avoid this by offering vegetables and dip, whole grain crackers and cheese, shrimp cocktail, or fruit skewers.
- Keep it fresh: Make sure that plenty of fruits and vegetables are served, since they tend to be low in calories and fat and high in fiber. Try an autumn-inspired salad, sweet potatoes, or green beans without heavy sauces or toppings.
- Go easy on the extras: Don’t overdo butter, gravy, cheese, salt, and cream sauces when cooking. Guests can always add more to their individual portion, if they would like.
- Switch it up: Swap recipe staples for lighter options, such as light cream cheese, skim milk, low-fat or lower-sodium soups, and so on.
Seek out and serve lighter fare at holiday gatherings.
If you’re a guest:
- Snack smart: Eat a healthy snack shortly before a party or dinner, so as not to arrive ravenous. Try an apple and peanut butter, vegetables and dip, or a small portion of cheese and whole grain crackers.
- Scan ahead: Before serving yourself, scan the buffet and plan to take some healthy options, like fruits and vegetables, as well as some of your favorite foods. Savor each bite, and try to wait at least 20 minutes before going back for seconds.
- Better beverages: Choose calorie-free beverages whenever possible, such as sparkling water, diet soda, coffee or tea, as calories from beverages can add up quickly. Also, remember that alcoholic beverages can be high in calories, and that alcohol can increase hunger.
- Focus on friends and family: Once you’re full, try to move away from the serving area to avoid mindless eating. Once finished eating, shift your focus to spending quality time with friends and family.
Written by Ministry Medical Group Employer Solutions Wellness Team
Health Matters Employer Solutions 