Have a plan to eat healthy during the holiday season
COMMENTARY
I struggle with overindulging during the holidays, but the tips below have helped me over the years. Hopefully you find them useful as well.
Don’t forgo the rest of the day’s meals before a holiday party — it may lead you to overindulging. Eat some lean protein, whole grains or fruit to stave off hunger — in a healthy way.
Strategize
Fill a plate with vegetables before moving on to meat and other foods at a holiday party. If there’s a must-have item in the buffet spread, grab a taste or two of it (my favorite is sweet potato casserole). For the most part, you’ll want to avoid the sauces.
Watch what you drink, from sugary coffees while holiday shopping to too many alcoholic beverages at an event.
Also — you can always overdo it on healthy foods too. Mind those portion sizes. Consider using a small dish to help rein it in.
Bring-your-own-food
Provide a healthy side dish to an event. It ensures that you can fill your plate with at least one nutritious item. A hearty salad, grain dish (think quinoa), or roasted vegetables will work.
This bring-your-ownfood tip goes beyond holiday parties. Consider bringing a snack or a drink while you holiday shop or work. It’ll help you avoid temptations to stop for fast food or eat those holiday cookies.
Need a suggestion on a healthy dish to bring? Try this Fresh and Healthy Artichoke Dip, courtesy of Ali Rosen, a staff writer for food-centric website The Daily Meal. The recipe uses fresh artichokes and avoids the mayonnaise and cream cheese in traditional artichoke dips.