Maneuvering Holiday Foods

Written by Kaytee Weaver Monday, 21 November 2011 18:23

The holidays are officially upon us and with them come parties, family gatherings and decadent foods galore.  I love the holidays, it’s my absolute favorite time of year!  But for those trying to stick to their healthy eating habits it becomes a challenge.  Maneuvering the holiday gatherings without going severely off track is a talent in itself.  It seems this time of year most people go into a baking frenzy.  Luring desserts, cheese spreads, and truffles seem to pop up all over the place.  The unhealthier the dish -- the more people give themselves the excuse to eat 5 times the normal amount.

Now before you go in to a panic thinking you won’t make it to January without gaining 10 pounds and throwing out all your hard work, there is hope.   Focus on the people you are around instead of focusing so much on the food.  Remember that the holidays are about spending quality time with friends and family.  Here are a few suggestions to keep you on track with your healthy eating habits.

1)    Eat a small meal at home before going to your holiday event.  Lean proteins, veggies and complex carbohydrates will keep your hunger at bay and prevent you from devouring the whole entire cheese ball.

2)    Bring your own dessert to share.  No one will notice if you sub out a few healthier options in favorite recipes.  Use low fat options for required ingredients in desserts or bring a fruit and dark chocolate platter.   Google is also a wonderful tool for finding healthier options for your favorite desserts.

3)    Keep a ‘sampling’ mindset.  Fill 2/3 of your plate with healthy options such as fresh vegetables and lean cuts of meat.  Use the other 1/3 to ‘sample’ your favorite dishes.  Keep dressings and toppings to a minimum as these can destroy even the healthiest options.

4)    Sip water/non-caloric beverage.  If your hands are full you aren’t able to pick mindlessly at foods around you.  This will also help you avoid mistaking dehydration for feelings of hunger.

5)    Leave a few items on your plate.  You aren’t sitting at your parent’s dinner table unable to leave if you don t clean your plate.  Throw a few bites out with your plate.  These can all add up.

6)    Split dessert with someone or have a few bites and toss the rest.  You can taste, savor and enjoy it without having to finish off the whole thing.  If you feel bad about wasting ask the host if you can take the rest home with you.

Holidays are a time for family and enjoyment, so by all means, if you want the whole piece of pie go for it!  Just make decisions MINDFULLY so you don’t go home feeling stuffed, wondering what in the world you even ate ☺

**Bite sized desserts are a great way to keep you on track

Kaytee Rae
FitnessRx for Women Forum Member and NPC Bikini Competitor!