How to survive the coming holiday… Without Gaining Weight

For many of us the weekend means more food, more family meals and sometimes, a lot of extra calories. You might be tempted to opt for the wrong “comfort foods” to help relieve stress of family, entertaining.

 

The good news? You can make this weekend different! With a few simple food tips and tricks, you can celebrate without adding to your waistline.


1 – Never go to a party hungry.

Eat something before you head out for a night of holiday fun that will take the edge off hunger and help maintain stable blood sugar levels (you’ll have more resolve at the party). The perfect pre-party snack will combine complex carbohydrates with protein and unsaturated fat:

  • Apple slices with peanut butter
  • Low fat Greek yogurt with granola (No Paleo friends)
  • String cheese with a pear (No Paleo)
  • A healthy energy bar (try making your own), these are also great to have on hand for those “marathon weekend shopping” trips.


2 – Beware of beverages!
It’s easy to forget that many holiday beverages are high in calories. Stay hydrated throughout the day! Thirst is often mistaken for hunger — so stay hydrated with water and other low calorie beverages. Minimize consumption of alcohol. Please keep focus :D


3 – At a party stay with the talkers instead of the eaters.

Eating is contagious and it is very easy to lose track of how many calories are in those little party appetizers.

If you are going to have something from the appetizer tray, opt for the vegetable crudité or a small portion of healthy chips with low fat dip.

Another good appetizer option is cold shrimp with cocktail sauce.

Choose no more than 2-3 small appetizers; put them on your plate and then walk away from the table and engage in conversation. Stick with the talkers and not the eaters!


4 – At holiday/weekend feast: Moderation should be your guide.

Here are a few simple tips to keep from overindulging at the main meal: First, don’t starve yourself all day, waiting for the holiday feast. Have regular meals and snacks earlier in the day. Second, when you get to the table load your plate with veggies: not only do you get loads of vitamins and minerals in few calories, their fiber and water content will help you feel fuller. Keep meat portion sizes between 4 and 8 oz . Finally, don’t drench your potatoes and other side dishes in butter.


5 – Wear something fitted and fabulous.

You’re less apt to overeat when you’re feeling great about how you look (and conscientious of how snug your clothes are fitting).


6 – Keep your fitness routine going!

The holidays are a great time to stick with your fitness routine. Exercise will give you the extra energy you need for parties and shopping.