Do you have several holiday parties or dinners on the docket this year? An Upstate nutrition expert offers up three tips to help you embrace the deliciousness of the season without the guilt.
1. DON’T ARRIVE TO THE PARTY STARVING.
A lot of people try to “save up” their calories all day, only to consume nearly an entire days’ worth of calories in a couple of hours. Research shows that skipping meals can cause overeating later in the day. Stick to your regular eating schedule of a healthy breakfast, snacks, and a lunch filled with lean meats and veggies to avoid arriving famished. If the party consists of heavy hors d’oeuvres rather than a dinner, have a healthy appetizer beforehand like a small salad with nuts and cheese, or veggies with hummus.
2. ALWAYS USE A PLATE.
It might sound simple, but picking up a small plate will help you consume less. By using a plate you are more aware of what you are eating and more likely to eat mindfully when going back for seconds. The next trick is to fill up 50% of that plate with vegetables. This will not only give you more water and nutrients, it is also an easy way to control your portions of higher fat meats and refined sugars at the party. Lastly, avoid standing near the buffet, and try to take your conversation elsewhere so you don’t feel tempted to graze.
3. ALTERNATE ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND WATER.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Not only will consuming water help slow down your holiday cocktail consumption and decrease your hangover, it will also help you combat the higher salt content in party foods. Cocktails can have up to 500 calories in just one drink. Consider lower calorie spirits like vodka, gin, or tequila mixed with sparkling water, and try holding your alcoholic drink in your non-dominant hand to help you drink less! Finally, be sure to set a plan for how many alcoholic drinks you are comfortable having at the party, and hold yourself to that goal.
At the end of the day, the holiday party is not about the food and drink, it’s about the people and celebrating our relationships this time of year. Conversation has no calories, so put the focus back on the true meaning of the season, and strike up a conversation!
Are you looking for a healthy holiday dish to bring to your holiday party? This dish is full of healthy...
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