Ask America’s Ultimate Experts

Yes, you can enjoy all your favorite seasonal treats without packing on unwanted pounds! If your to-do list is longer than Santa’s naughty- or-nice list, start your day with an energizing, satisfying breakfast that’ll cut cravings for hours, says dietitia

Lead with protein!

A simple timing trick to help you stay trim? “Feast on protein-rich foods, such as turkey, chicken and lean meat, as well as nonstarchy veggies, such as salad greens, before enjoying your favorite carb-rich foods such as stuffing or cornbread,” says Koch. “According to a new study, this simple strategy of eating protein first, then carbs about 10 minutes later—instead of eating them at the same time— reduces post-meal fat-storing insulin as much as 25%, while increasing a gut hormone that makes you feel fuller longer! Plus this way, you’ll be able to enjoy dessert satisfied instead of starving, which helps you keep portions in check.”

Sip eggnog like Champagne!

Surprising but true: Simply pouring eggnog (just eight ounces contains a whopping 200 calories, per Koch) into a champagne flute helps you effortlessly reduce consumption. “The average champagne glass holds six ounces, and a typical ‘pour’ is about 2/3 full, or four ounces— about 95 calories. So, you can cut calories in half just by using a champagne flute!”

Let seasonal treats slim you! Cut calories with peppermint!

Place 1 Tbs. cocoa powder, 3 packets no-calorie sweetener, such as stevia, and 1/4 rounded tsp. cornstarch in a microwavesafe mug. Whisk in 2/3 cup warm water, 1/2 tsp. each instant coffee and peppermint extract. Microwave on high one minute. Whisk in 1/4 cup low-fat milk. Heat 30 seconds and top with 2 Tbs. light whipped cream. “By comparison, a small Peppermint Mocha with whipped cream at Starbucks serves up 350 calories and 10 teaspoons of sugar!”

Curb cravings with cocoa!

Not-so-fun fact: When we’re even slightly dehydrated, we tend to feel hungrier and crave fatty foods. “We naturally drink less when the weather gets colder, so it’s important to remind yourself to enjoy a cuppa,” says nutritionist Erin Palinksi-wade. “Warm drinks are especially satisfying and help curb cravings, and hot cocoa in particular has been shown to reduce your appetite for both sweet and salty snacks. Just be sure to go for an antioxidant-rich dark chocolate— and sprinkle in some cinnamon for an extra calorie-burn kick!”