Caution: Holiday Ahead!

Caution! Holidays may be hazardous, particularly when it comes to the waistline.  (Forethought and forbearance now will pay dividends for your health in the new year.)

Often, people rationalize, saying “It’s holiday time. I’ll eat healthy later.” Later often means a cost in more pounds, clothes that don’t fit, and self-esteem that is bottomed out.

So, how do you cope and come out on top of holiday temptations? Here are some suggestions for host, hostess, or guest.

Host or Hostess

• Keep the menu light when it comes to foods high in fat and sugar. Remember that simple foods can be delicious and healthier.
• Provide low-calorie foods such as low-fat cottage cheese or yogurt dips with fresh vegetables or fruit dippers.

There is also a variety of low-calorie beverages that contain fewer calories than traditional beverages. Eggnog contains 340 calories a cup.

• Don’t prepare more food than needed for a party. You may end up encouraging everyone to eat more so you won’t have leftovers.
• Make baked goods and other goodies in various sizes so guests can choose what they want. Remember, in many cases, you will still have a tasty product if you use about ¼ cup less sugar in many cookie recipes.
• Don’t be offended if someone refuses food. Most likely, the reason is not your cooking, but their own resolve to maintain a diet.
• Plan activities that use energy such as outdoor caroling or games. Holidays are an active time, but we seldom get enough exercise to offset extra calories.

Guest

Decide your food limits before you arrive at a party.

• Play a game with yourself. See how long you can wait before you take that first nibble from the hors d’oeuvre tray.
• Use a smaller plate.
• Don’t stand next to the food table.
• Let one drink last the entire evening.
• Be aware of emotional eating.
• Don’t go to the party hungry.

To curb holiday eating, eat a balanced diet with healthy choices and get plenty of exercise. Overeating doesn’t have to be part of your holiday celebration.