- Eat a small, balanced meal or snack before you leave home (e.g. ¼ cup almonds). If you arrive to the party hungry, you’ll be more likely to overindulge.
- Ask if you can bring a healthy side-dish or a “lightened up” dessert
- Study ALL of the food options, and think about what you are going to have before you put anything on your plate. Decide which foods are worth eating and which can be ignored, and then stick to that decision.
- If you taste something that you don’t enjoy, leave it on your plate—don’t finish it!
- Choose vegetables first. Broccoli, baby carrots, cauliflower and tomatoes are good choices that are usually on the appetizer table. Fill half your dinner plate with salad.
- Eat chips and crackers in moderation, and definitely avoid eating them straight from the bowl. Put some on a small plate so you can see your portion.
- Try not to hang out near the food to avoid grazing. Find a comfortable spot across the room and focus on socializing instead of eating.
- Sip a large glass of water or fruit-flavored seltzer. This will keep you hydrated and provide you with a better option than alcohol or sugary drinks.
- Make physical activity a priority during the holiday season. Plan to attend your usual exercise session the day of a party and if you over-indulge take a walk after a big meal.
View a recipe for Coconut and Pecan Crusted Tilapia
here.
