It’s Party Season…
Let’s talk about how to survive!
I love the holidays! But if you’re trying to lose weight, all the sweet, carb-filled holiday treats can sometimes add stress to your celebrations. I’m going to share with you how to enjoy all the delights of the season while still staying true to your weight-loss goals.
Stick with your healthy habits during the week
Don’t get caught up in the holiday bustle and let your regular meal planning or workout routine fall to the wayside. Keep eating nutritious meals in the proper portions and exercise into your usual workweek, when your schedule is more structured. This gives you a little more wiggle room for indulging or kicking back and relaxing a bit on the weekend.
Eat a filling breakfast and lunch
Start the day with a healthy, satisfying breakfast and a reasonable lunch, so you won’t be ravenous by the time the holiday meal is served.
Select a smaller plate
Research shows that the bigger the plate we take, the bigger the portion we put on it. Nine-inch plates (versus 12-inch dinner plates) make normal portions look more filling, but go too small though and you’ll be more inclined to go back for seconds.
Prioritize your treats
We all look forward to treating ourselves during the holidays, but all those temptations can quickly become overwhelming! Scan the entire table of food first and then choose the two or three that you want the. Then, take your time and savor each bite!
Put off pre-dinner drinks
Not only is alcohol a sneaky source of empty calories, but research also suggests it makes us more inclined to overeat. Alcohol appears to sensitize the brain’s response to food aromas, which can lead us to eat more. Just a couple of drinks before a meal may increase your food consumption, so, if you’re headed for a party, go with one or two drinks after dinner instead. That way, you’ll be less likely to overeat and you get the added benefit of having some food in your stomach to slow the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream.
Be ACTIVE!
Try building a healthy activity into your day, whether it’s a hike or a neighborhood game of touch football. If you’re giving gifts, think about toys and games that promote an active lifestyle. If you’re too old for toys (is anyone too old for toys?), then get out there and play with your kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews, or even your pet.
Incorporate healthy food swaps
If I’m hosting the party — or even contributing a dish for the table — I like to share traditional dishes made using healthy food swaps designed to be every bit as filling and delicious as the originals. What are your favorite ways to survive the holidays!? I’d love to hear them!