Holiday Eating Guide

Between holiday office parties and family get togethers,the month of December can be quite the eating (and drinking) fest. To add insult to injury, traditional holiday treats that flood offices and homes, like gingerbread cookies, chocolate, and eggnog, are loaded with fat and sugar. Instead of swearing off all social plans and go into hiding to avoid overeating, here are some tips to get you through the next few weeks without packing on unwanted pounds.

 

 

 

  • Have a small high fiber and lean protein snack before you attend parties.  This will help keep your appetite in check so you don’t pounce on the hor duerves as soon as they catch your eye. Examples include greek yogurt with fresh fruit, 1 oz whole grain crackers with 1 oz of reduced-fat cheese, or 1 hard-boiled egg with 1 slice of 100% whole wheat toast.

 

  • Don’t just eat to eat. Many times we just eat because the food is there or everyone else is eating. Before you take the first bite, check in with your stomach to see if its truly hunger.

 

  • Be conscious of strong influential emotions that can lead to overeating. Sadness, loneliness, joy, anger, etc, can all have an effect on your appetite or cravings.

 

  • Ask yourself questions before eating: “is this really what I desire to eat right now?” Go for what you really desire and you’ll feel more satisfied all night long.

 

  • Don’t skip meals to save calories for later. You’ll likely be extra hungry and overeat when you finally get in front of the food.

 

  • Make comprises with yourself. If you want to have an alcoholic drink, don’t also indulge in sweets or desserts. Pick one or the other to keep your calorie intake in check.


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