Written by Nicole Griswold
Did you know that on average, Americans gain 6lbs over the holiday season? With the inevitable downward winter weather spiral and the overwhelming amounts of glorious foods and treats, it’s easy to throw on the extra pounds. I’m a pretty big advocate of treating yourself and allowing the occasional indulgence, especially during the holidays.
Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year are times to celebrate, relax with family, and have a few extra drinks. Everyone has their weakness when it comes to the yummy temptations lingering in the kitchen so here are a couple tricks to enjoy yourself but not overdo it.
Portions! This is easily the biggest issue for most people – not even during the holidays. How many times do re-load your plate? Two or three more times? Try eating one plate and waiting 20 minutes. Are you still hungry? Do you still really want more?
Use a smaller plate as opposed to a full size dinner plate. Load it up! You’ll be looking at a plate just full of delicious food. Yes, there is less food there but it appears like you have just as much.
Still tempted for more? As soon as you’re finished with your original plate, get up and rinse it in the sink. No more plate = no more food.
Desserts! So much pie. How many different desserts does your family have available and how many different kinds of dessert ends up on your plate? Contrary to popular belief, you actually are not required to try every single dessert available. Pick your favorite and leave the rest. Maybe have a bite or two of something else later on.
Pre-Dinner Snacks – Often times there are plates of mini appetizers scattered about. You see it, you eat it. Your socializing, maybe have a glass of wine, and before you know it you’ve snacked enough to not even be hungry for dinner. Is that cracker with cheese on it that exciting? A good rule of thumb here is to not go into the event starving. Have breakfast, drink some extra water, and you won’t be tempted to load up on the finger foods.
Drinking – Watching the Lions lose on Thanksgiving day as well as a handful of Christmas parties on the calendar, it’s pretty obvious that you’ll drinking a bit more than usual. If you’re trying to watch the calories, grab a lighter beer, a glass of red wine, or a clear liquor like vodka or gin.
Buddy Up – A great way to find some accountability in these situations is to tell someone ahead of time what your plan is. Tell your spouse, a family member, or friend that you are trying to watch how much you’ll be eating. There is a chance you’ll start caving in the temptation of extra food or sweets and it’s nice to have someone there to lovingly slap your hand away.
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