The festive season brings to mind thoughts of family, friends, fun and food. However, people often struggle to maintain their waistlines while surrounded by tempting treats.
Parties
By following the healthy tips below, you will be on your way to enjoying all your festive season parties, while also staying in control of your eating. For example:
- Do not leave the house on an empty stomach, it promotes overeating.
- Avoid standing near the food table, a sure-fire way to overindulge.
- Make socialising your top priority; conversation will keep you occupied and away from the food.
- Limit your drinking; alcohol increases hunger and lowers willpower.
- Offer a low-calorie alternative. For example, if you have volunteered to bring a pudding, bring fruit rather than a cheesecake.
- Listen to your stomach; reduce your portion sizes and stop eating when you feel satisfied rather than stuffed.
Cooking and Baking
If you are the one hosting, use that to your advantage—it puts you in control of what will be served. For example, substitute high-fat or calorie-laden ingredients with more healthy choices, such as using an egg substitute rather than a whole egg. There can also be a downfall when it comes to hosting: the temptation to sample the food while you are preparing it. To help you resist the urge to snack while cooking:
- Keep your mouth occupied with a piece of sugar-free gum or sip tea to reduce your urge to sample while you cook.
- Prepare foods on a full stomach. You will not be as tempted to taste what you are making.
Cocktails and Beverages
Before you reach for the eggnog, remember that some mixed drinks may have as many calories as a pudding. It’s okay to indulge in some spirits, but keep in mind that the more you drink, the more the temptation to snack increases. Instead of that second alcoholic beverage, try iced water with lemon or non-caffeinated soft drinks.