Trimming the Fat from the Feast
Mary Dressing-Kolbeck, MS, RD, LN
Beware! We are entering the most challenging time of the year when it comes to eating. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, rich and tasty foods are in abundance every where we turn. It is easy to overeat due to exposure to food at work, office parties, social gatherings and family functions. If that is not enough, consider the internal cues of stress, loneliness, or depression which can push us in the direction of seeking relief with food.
At every turn, the temptations are present. It is difficult to navigate these weeks without overeating and gaining unwanted pounds. Here are a few tips that may help move you through the holidays without deprivation or guilt.
This holiday season challenge yourself to break tradition with some of these simple guidelines. You will enjoy the holidays just as much and you will look and feel better too! The best part will be not having to deal with extra baggage come January 1st!
Mary Dressing-Kolbeck, MS, RD, LN
Beware! We are entering the most challenging time of the year when it comes to eating. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, rich and tasty foods are in abundance every where we turn. It is easy to overeat due to exposure to food at work, office parties, social gatherings and family functions. If that is not enough, consider the internal cues of stress, loneliness, or depression which can push us in the direction of seeking relief with food.
At every turn, the temptations are present. It is difficult to navigate these weeks without overeating and gaining unwanted pounds. Here are a few tips that may help move you through the holidays without deprivation or guilt.
- Assume responsibility - you are the only one putting food in your mouth!
- Learn from past experiences - Plan Ahead. What worked well for me last year and what did not?
- Even if the plan is not followed exactly, having a plan is better than no plan.
- Don’t go to the party hungry - if you hold off on eating all day, you have probably just set yourself up to splurge.
- Once you arrive at the party, look over the food, prioritize your selections, use a plate and then select a spot to sit which is away from the buffet table.
- Pass on fried foods. Instead select fruits and vegetables, whole grain crackers, lean meats (instead of processed meats) and nibble on a few pieces of cheese and a small portion of nuts.
- Sample desserts as if they were rare wines.
- Alternate alcoholic beverages with water with a slice of lemon or other calorie free choices.
- If you bring a dish to the party, bring one that suits your needs.
- Take small portions, slow down, taste the food and dine with your friends rather than just eat.
- Eat the real thing, have that piece of fudge and enjoy it. If you are present while you eat it, you may be less likely to take another piece.
- Invite yourself out for a walk in the snow rather than seconds!
This holiday season challenge yourself to break tradition with some of these simple guidelines. You will enjoy the holidays just as much and you will look and feel better too! The best part will be not having to deal with extra baggage come January 1st!
