‘Tis the season to be jolly. And let’s face it, Christmas season is full of temptation on all fronts. Between all the indulgent food options arriving in hampers and at the various end of year parties, the time between Christians and New Year’s Eve is a minefield for eating well.
In order to enjoy what friends, family and office parties have to offer, as well as just relax your nerves during the holiday period, lower some diet-related stress, focus on maintaining your weight rather than losing weight. Allow yourself more flexibility this time of year. There will be temptations from all sides and with a little planning, you can indulge in your favorite foods while still eating well.
Social gatherings during the holiday season are full of indulgent foods that challenge healthy eating habits.
so here are a few tips to help you navigate through this season of great temptation.
1. Eat Beforehand
Eat breakfast, lunch as well as something small immediately before your event. Skipping meals during the day can often lead to overeating later, not to mention feeling sluggish and hungry throughout the day. A light snack before the party, such as fruit or raw vegetables, will help you manage your appetite. If you’re attending a party where you may only be served small chops, eat a nutritious and protein-filled dinner before arriving — that will save you from trying to sustain yourself on high-calorie, deep fried delicious puff puff.
2. Survey the Options
When you arrive, take some time to see all that’s available. Identify your healthy options and what will be your big indulgences. Then come up with a plan that will allow you to enjoy your favorite foods without abandoning your healthy habits. For example at a buffet don’t head straight for the “swallow”. Start with the salad section and fill up on some healthy protein/meats then you can enjoy some desert afterwards.
3. Avoid Grazing
If given the option of buffet appetizers or passed finger foods, wait for the food to come to you. The staggered service will slow down your eating and help you eat less.
When the party is a buffet distance is key. After you’ve filled your plate, step away from the table so you’re not too tempted to graze or go for seconds. Out-of-reach is also a strong strategy for snacks like nuts, chocolates or chips that may be placed in bowls around the room.
Using a small plate can help you control serving size by limiting how much of each food you choose.
4. BYO Health Food
For more intimate gatherings like family events or house parties, you can take the BYO (not bottle) option. Instead bring the healthy food you want to see at the party. And it doesn’t have to be a boring dish try bringing a healthy spin on comfort food.
5. Beware of Booze
alcoholic drinks in general are rich with added sugar and empty calories, so keep those glasses of champagne in mind when you’re calculating calories. Moreover, alcohol can diminish your inhibitions and lead to overeating — a double danger. Treat holiday cocktails like a dessert and you should be in good shape.
6. Decide About Dessert
Desert is almost impossible to avoid at holiday parties — it’s almost the main event. Some strategic eating, such as starting with low-cal vegetables or broth-based soups to fill you up before a light dinner, can leave both room and calories to indulge in dessert.
7. End With a Mint
It can be tempting to keep eating after we’re full or as long as there’s good food in sight. When you’re satisfied or want to stop yourself from overindulging, have a mint or a piece of gum. Not only will it freshen your breath, but the mint also can act as a mild appetite suppressant.
Armed with these tips you can now go forth and make your way through this holiday season and hopefully not fall of the healthy eating bandwagon completely.
Happy holidays.
