Healthy Holiday Eating Strategies

The average person gains at least a pound during the holidays (Thanksgiving- Super Bowl Sunday). It may not seem like a lot but if you gain this every holiday season it can add up over the years. Some people consume close to 4500 calories just on Thanksgiving. One would have to walk 45 miles to burn off one day’s indulgences. It can be very challenging to have fun during holiday festivities without over-indulging. To minimize weight gain this year, try some of the tips below:

Think and Plan Ahead

Make a list of all the holiday meals and parties you have been invited to, then mark them on a calendar. Try to eat lighter on these days to balance the fat and calories in your party food.

Never go to a Party Hungry

Eat a light snack before you go out so you won’t gorge when you arrive at the party. If the party or event includes a buffet, don’t stand at the table for long periods of time. Take one or two items and move across the room to chat with someone. Keep the number of hors d’oeuvres to a happy minimum. Just a handful of peanuts can add as many as 300 calories and loads of fat to your daily tally. Eat those items you really like and if you are still hungry fill up on low calorie fruits and vegetables.

Remember Alcohol does have Calories

One punch cup of eggnog has close to 400 calories. Stick with wine or beer and alternate with calorie-free beverages.

Minimize Seconds at Meals and Limit Condiments and Sauces

Three to four ladles of gravy provide a whopping 800 calories. Butter and margarine both are about 100 calories a tablespoon with 14 grams of fat. 

Try Keeping a Record of What You’re Eating During the Holidays

This can be a difficult task but very helpful. By writing down what you eat you can carefully see what you are doing on a daily basis. Researchers have found that individuals who kept food records during the holidays actually lost weight.

Don’t Neglect Exercise and/or Physical Activity

Even if you overeat on occasion during the holidays, exercise can help you manage those extra calories.

Meal and Menu Planning, Weight Management