Suggestions for Success at a Holiday Party or Famliy Celebration

The holidays are soon approaching. We all look forward to spending time with family and friends, enjoying holiday parties, and eating lots of great food. But, we all know, it can be challenging to eat healthy during the holiday season. There are food temptations all around us. So, how can you be successful? What will you do to stay healthy this holiday season?

Eat a healthy breakfast on the day of a party.
-Have a breakfast that includes plenty of protein.
* Scrambled eggs with fruit and toast
* Yougurt and cereal
* 1 Tbsp peanut butter on whole wheat toast
* Cereal and milk
* Meal Replacement
-Do not skip breakfast and save the calories for later that day. This will lead to overeating at the party; you will be very hungry, the smells and sights of all of the food will increase your hunger, and you will likely make unhealthy food choices.

Try to exercise the day of the party.
-You will burn extra calories and will feel good about yourself.

Do not go to the celebration hungry.
-This will lead to overeating on the appetizers and snacks. Instead, have a healthy 100 calorie snack that contains protein to help satisfy your hunger. Also, drink a glass of water before going to a party.

Preapare healthy food items.
-If you are having guests over to your house, prepare some lower calorie appetizers including vegetables and low fat dip, crackers with low fat cheese, sliced apples with yogurt, and shrimp with cocktail sauce.
-If you are going to someone's house, offer to bring over a vegetable platter and a healthy side dish for dinner. This will allow you some healthy options.
-Have a salad at the beginning of the meal. You can add cranberries and walnuts to give it some added flavor and color.

Limit yourself to one alcoholic drink.
-After that drink seltzer water, unsweetened iced tea, or water.

It's ok to indulge...a little.
-At a holiday party, choose 1 or 2 things to indulge in (in small portion sizes) and walk past the rest. Moderation is key. For dessert, again, try to eat fruit salad or just choose one dessert and have a small piece.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!