As you head off to those holiday parties this weekend, following are a few tips from Elizabeth M. Ward, MS, RD to help satisfy your taste buds while keeping your waistline in check:
Smart Strategies for Staying Satisfied
By Elizabeth M. Ward, MS RD
Indulge, but be discriminating. Remember that the first few bites of any food are usually the most pleasurable, so take small portions of high-calorie foods you absolutely must have. Fill up the rest of your plate with lower-calorie fare, such as lean meat (go easy on the gravy), plain vegetables and grains.
Bring your own. Prepare at least one healthy dish to take to holiday get-togethers, such as a simple green salad, shrimp cocktail or spice the buffet table up a bit by bringing a traditional Mexican salad with California Raisins.
Focus on fiber. Stop hunger in its tracks by including fiber-filled foods during meals and snacks. Prevent mindless snacking on holiday cookies and candy around the house and at the office with this delicious trail mix: Combine ¼ cup California raisins, 2 tablespoons nuts, and ½ cup whole grain cereal.
Pile on the protein. Like fiber, protein promotes fullness. You’ll be less likely to overeat when your plate is piled with protein-packed foods, such as seafood, poultry, pork, and lean beef.
Splurge sensibly. You don’t need to deny yourself the joy of eating a sugar cookie or drinking hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, but you can make smarter choice when it comes to seasonal favorites. For example, choose pumpkin pie instead of pecan and save 300 calories. Skip the ice cream and save even more.
Keep busy. Offer to do the dishes or clear the table to keep your mind off of the goodies. Finished eating? Occupy your mouth with a breath mint or chewing gum to prevent nibbling that can pack on the pounds.
