by Betty Blake

Created on: December 09, 2009

For many of us, this is the most wonderful time of the year.  The season officially starts at Thanksgiving with the mouth-watering bird and candied yam and many other enticing side dishes.  Then, Christmas, Hanukkah, and the New Year's Eve parties are another story.  Who can resist the succulent honey-baked ham decorated with pineapple slices, cherries and drizzled with plum sauce? And, let us not forget the varied pies, cookies and fruit cakes.  We love to host and attend parties, mingling with co-workers and loved ones.  Afterall, it is a period for spreading good cheers. 

The fact is, the holiday period is wonderful; however, we tend to indulge very well during this time.  And, of course, we pay for it in the coming year.  It is estimated that each person gains an average of approximately five pounds during the holiday season.  We always have the grand old excuse, "I will work it off later!"  But, there are ways to avoid the pain of holiday excess eating. Some of the ways one can practice to have control and avoid the pitfalls of overeating are:

 SNACK BEFORE YOU ATTEND A DINNER PARTY

This advice might sound rather silly, seeing that you will be partaking of food at your party.  However, it makes perfect sense to eat something light like a piece of fruit or nuts.  Turning up with an empty stomach will cause you to overeat the wrong items on the menu.

AVOID THE HEAVY CREAMY SOUPS

Creamy soups tend to carry a few extra calories.  Instead, eat a crispy green salad with low fat dressing.  Also, be aware of the salad toppings like, cheese, bacon and crotons.  They too carry extra calories. 

AVOID THE MIXED DRINKS

Mixed drinks are normally packed with additional calories.  Yes, the Long Island Ice Tea might be devishishly refreshing; however, it is loaded with lots of calories.  Substitute this for a glass of light white or red wine.  You will still enjoy a little buzz.  And, do remember to stay hydrated.  In fact, a calorie packed drink could be substituted for a glass of sparkingly (seltzer) water.

Dilute that eggnog with a little lowfat milk and put a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg.

SKIP THE APPETIZERS

If you know that you are going enjoy the fruit cake, black forest cake or any other delicious dessert item on the menu; perhaps, you should skip the appetizers.

KEEP MOVING

During the holiday season, we sometimes place exercise on the back burner due to added activities.  Bear in mind, this is not the time to abandon a walk on the threadmill or in the park.  We all need to work off the additional calories we took in.  Moreover, exercise will ease the holiday stress and blues.  Your body will thank you for it.

Avoiding the pain of excess holiday eating shows that you are in control.  One does not have to overeat in order to savor the true essence of a meal.  It is essential that one develops a little disciple; but, at the same time, do not deny yourself the seasonal dishes that provide comfort and nutrition.  Balance is the key.  Bona Appetit and Happy Holidays!

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