The Observer, November 30, 2007
Volume XL, Issue 12
Lighten Up: Holiday Eating Advice
If you are anything like me, you spent this past weekend thinking, "How am I possibly going to make it through the holidays without splurging at every opportunity?" From oliday parties and meeting friends for dinner to Mom's cookies constantly baking in the kitchen, these guidelines are the key to a guilt-free holiday season!
The one-stop sweet shop rule: don't go back for seconds! Try to take small samples that equal up to one total dessert. If you sample a little bit of everything, you won't feel like you missed out, or like you went overboard.
Go for the double date! Make it a rule of thumb to hit the gym before every food-oriented commitment and plan your workouts accordingly. If you know you'll be most tempted at a get-together with your friends, up the intensity to offset those extra calories. Making a workout plan tailored to your holiday commitments will keep you in control.
Traveling? Talk about temptation! It's so easy to pick up a bag of M&Ms for the road, or stop for a burger and fries on the way to your gate. However, there are other healthy alternatives that are tasty too! For example, a salad is a delicious, healthy, and filling meal option. Need something sweet? Go for the chocolate-covered peanuts or yogurt-covered raisins for a more substantial alternative.
Check out restaurants' websites ahead of time. Starbucks.com offers nutritional information that can help you make a sweet, sensible selection. You can add or subtract whipped cream, choose which type of milk to use, and pick a size. These tools are great when trying to stick to a plan, yet still have fun and enjoy a holiday treat.
Finger foods put you in a frenzy? This is a tricky one, because portion control becomes more difficult. Try this 3-2-1 rule at a dinner party to keep those fingers in check: aim for three samples from the fruits or veggies tray (with a sensible amount of dip), try two of those irresistible hors d'oeuvres, and sample one treat from the dessert tray. By filling up with healthier foods first, your appetite and urge to munch will decrease. Also, include plenty of water before you leave for the event, which will be sure to help curb your hunger.
Going into the holidays with a plan is the key to keeping your diet in check. No one wants to miss out on those treats that come around once a year, or look like they've indulged in every single one of them. So think ahead, have a plan, and write the word 'moderation' on your hand to remind you to lighten up every time you go for that extra cookie.
