Holiday eating tips

As the holiday season approaches, it seems like a good time to remind ourselves about the importance of balance when it comes to eating habits. Not necessarily denying yourself all the goodies, but keeping things in perspective, always seeking moderation. In the month of December, I usually buy a box of chocolates to put in the cupboard. I allow myself one per day. That’s it. Believe me, I savour it and make it last.

Here are my top 10 tips for maintaining your weight and health over the holiday season:

1. Going to a party? One suggestion is to have dinner before going to a party so that you will be less tempted to fill up on unhealthy munchies. See if this approach works for you. Take small portions of your favourite dishes, and skip the ones you can live without. Enjoy your favourite holiday treats, but keep the portions small and again, savour each bite.
2. Keep your distance from the food table.
3. Beware of calorie-laden beverages. Some are loaded with sugar, some have too much fat. Some have both. For example, Starbucks' Egg Nog Latte contains 460 calories, 21 grams of fat and 48 grams of sugar! A glass of water is a good way to start the evening.
4. When sitting down to a banquet-style meal, use a smaller plate and take a taste of each item. Eat slowly and concentrate on what you are eating while you are eating it and chew your food well.
5. At a cocktail party, hold your drink in your dominant hand (usually the right) so you will be less tempted to reach for food impulsively, with your free hand.
6. Balance out the heavy meals with healthy ones. Soups and salads are good choices on the non-partying days. Lighten up breakfast and lunch to help compensate for extra calories at other times.
7. Don't let yourself get too hungry to the point that you reach for the nearest cookie. Plan ahead and make sure you eat a balanced meal. Do this and the inclination to overindulge in sweets or unhealthy (but convenient) snacks will be greatly reduced.
8. Add more fiber to keep your blood sugar stable and your stomach feeling full.
9. Eat more protein to balance out the fats and sugars that abound this time of year. Like fiber, protein-rich foods will help you feel full longer. Choose beans and legumes, lean organic meats especially chicken, turkey and fish, and plain yogurt or kefir. Nuts are also great in moderation.
10. And don't miss a workout! Keep exercising daily; even increase the volume and/or the intensity. If you're not an exerciser, add extra physical activity of some kind into your daily routine. Walk more, take the stairs, play with the kids. Walk instead of driving whenever possible: to the shopping centre, around the neighbourhood to see the lights, to a friend's house.

Get out there and enjoy the season: enjoy the company of family, friends, and of course, your food. Balance indulgence with restraint. Take your time, relax, and soak up the holiday spirit. Happy holidays everyone and good health!