5 of 8

Write now Article Tools

It's that time of year again and with it comes the stress of wanting to eat everything you love but not wanting to pack on any unneeded pounds. Well you can eat everything you love and not gain any unnecessary weight. All you need is a little know how and time when it comes to eating.

With Thanksgiving only two weeks away I don't know about you but my mouth waters at the thought of having turkey and all the trimmings. But the thought of gaining any unneccesary weight is also there. What most people don't know is that you don't have to strave yourself in order to maintain your weight this holiday season. All you have to do is make the right choices when it comes to choosing what goes on your plate. Here are a few simple tips that can keep you IN your waist line this season.

1. You don't have to skimp on appetizers. If your at a family gathering for the holidays you don't have to strave yourself until dinner time. Just be wise in the types of appetizers you choose to eat. Go for the veggies and fruits trays that may be out. Also you don't have to stay away from dips, just know which kinds are good for you. Hummus and salsa are good type of dips. Try to stay away from creamy ranch or veggie dips they usually are high in fat and calories. You can also calm your appetite by eating cheese. Keep in mind the kind of your choosing. Brie and Mozzarella are good choices with Mozzarella being the best choice though you may want to combine it with mixed nuts or a cereal based party mix for something more filling.

2. Remember the key word moderation. Don't skip the turkey and stuffing or even the ham for that matter, just remember everything in moderation. You don't have to measure everything out, if you know what a deck of cards look like and how big the palm of your hand is then your one step ahead of the bulge game. When it comes time to putting turkey on the plate put only enough turkey that is as big as a deck of cards. Also take in consideration that white meat turkey is healthier than dark meat turkey. With only 168 calories and 7 grams of fat it is by far the healthiest choice to make. But if you must have dark meat turkey then mix it with the turkey breast. Just remember to only have about a quarter to half the amount of dark meat to white meat. When it comes to the trimmings, just look at the inside of your palm as a guide. Or if you need a little more help just use an ice cream scoop. That is a good portion control agent when it comes to the sides.

3. You have to make the right choice of side dishes. Another key element to remember is what sides to choose when you are filling your plate. While they all look good, they may not all be not good FOR you. If you must choose what sides to eat, here are some choices of foods that you can even go back for seconds. Your veggies such as asparagus. squash, green beans, and corn are great choices. None of these are more than 86 calories and most have 0 grams of fat. You can also have cranberry sauce, but remember it should be no more than 2 oz. or two palms.

4. Last but not least you don't have to skimp on desert. You can have sugar cookies and even fudge. Just remember in moderation. But if you really want to play it safe just go for the classic candy cane.

Hopefully these tips will help you through the holiday season. Keep in mind you can you enjoy your holidays as long as you use moderation and choose the right foods.

Learn more about this author, Latisha Cooper.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to avoid putting on weight during the holiday season?
We want to hear your view. Write now!