Helpful Tips for Healthy Holiday Eating

The holiday party season is in full swing, and with each party comes the challenge of keeping your commitment to healthful eating. If you are a guest at a gathering, consider these tips to keep your night healthy, happy and safe:

• If you plan to treat yourself later, start your day with a small meal that includes whole grains, fruit, dairy foods and protein like eggs, ham or peanut butter.
• Don’t starve yourself beforehand. Rather, eat a small, lower-calorie meal or snack such as fruit or a bagel so you aren’t tempted to overdo your calorie intake for the day.
• Select carefully between foods you definitely will eat, those you will sample and those you will skip.
• Don’t rush to eat. Socialize and settle into the festivities before you eat.
• Move your socializing away from the buffet or appetizer trays. This will minimize the unconscious nibbling.
• When it comes to drinking alcohol, start with a calorie-free, nonalcoholic beverage. Satisfy your thirst before having an alcoholic drink. Keep in mind, even a single drink will affect your reflexes for several hours. If you plan to drink, keep your holidays merry for everyone by designating a driver who won’t be drinking.

The holidays are a great time for celebrating with friends and family over food and drinks, but with just a little preparation, you can keep off the extra holiday pounds and still enjoy all that the season has to offer.

Source: The American Dietetic Association