Shop Smart: Plan your menu to include foods which are low in fat and calories. Choose from fruits, vegetables, lean meats, seafood, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. You can check the nutritional label on the back of each food for the calories, fat and sugar content.
Substitute with low calorie ingredients when planning your meal: There are many low calorie, tasty alternatives that can be used to substitute. For instance, many holiday recipes, ask for eggs, use two egg whites in place of one whole egg. Cooking with cheese? Try a reduce-fat brand, you won\’t miss the calories! Choose for low calorie alternatives when adding gravy or sauces to your meal. Most heavy cream sauces can be replaced with low calorie delicious ones. Try Grilled pork chops served with a mango salsa. White sauce which is used as the basis for so many classic sauces is traditionally made using butter and flour, you can substitute using low fat natural yogurt or half fat creme faiche in place of cream. Try using ricotta or low fat fromage frais or other low fat substitutes instead of full fat cream cheeses in a sauce. Simple swapping of ingredients are easy ways to reduce the calories in a meal and no one will even notice the difference.
Roast or Grill for fewer calories with a rich flavor: Roasting or grilling meat, seafood, vegetables, and potatoes can be easy. Try roasted sweet potatoes with a dash of cinnamon sugar and a drizzle of butter for a delicious substitute for a traditional high calorie casserole dish.
Eat a small snack before you start: Before the guests arrive or the holiday gathering, eat a snack with protein and fiber, an egg with toast or a yogurt with a slice of apple will do. Most appetizers have a tendency to be loaded with calories and since they are small you may end up over eating them before the meal even starts. If you start with some protein and fiber in your stomach, you will be ready for the seasonal festivities and might just avoid the appetizers all together!
Try Healthier Desserts: Pumpkin pie is a healthy alternative and make it with non-fat evaporated milk, top it with fat-free whipped cream and you have the delicious taste but fewer calories and fat than most heavy chocolaty, creamy desserts. But if you are a fan of chocolate, try chocolate dipped strawberries for a colorful and delicious dessert.
Drink Moderately: Enjoy non-alcoholic drinks between alcoholic beverages. Avoid eggnog and other holiday beverages that are filled with calories. Offer plenty of low-calorie drinks such as, diet soda, sparkling water, and juice. You\’ll stay hydrated and still enjoy the holiday fun.
Celebrate in other ways: The holiday fun is not just about food. Get everyone active indoors with games or dancing. Outdoors, the sky is the limit – take a walk, show the family your neighborhood, or town. You can organize a sleigh ride, snowball fight, snowman contest, football game!
Keep these tips in mind to help you get through the holidays without gaining the unnecessary weight. And if by chance you do splurge, don\’t beat yourself up, the experts say. Just make sure to get back to your normal eating and exercising routine when the festivities are over. And for the New Year, you can always try a healthier approach and diet to maintain till the next holiday arrives.
Read more about Mainting your weight through the holidays and portion conrol.
