If you have to bake for the holidays try to do it at the last minute to avoid snacking. If friends and family bring over holiday treats serve them when you have company or freeze them until you do. I've found that the treats are out on the counter they call your name.
Here are some reminders of ways to stay healthy over the holidays. Step 1Reduce or avoid alcohol. This can save you a lot of calories.
Step 2Eat before going to a holiday party. You'll be less likely to fill up on sweets and high-calorie appetizers.
Step 3Keep up your exercise program. It will help you maintain your weight, give you more energy and allow you to deal better with holiday stress.
Step 4Bring fat-free or low-fat dishes to potluck parties. Encourage others to do the same.
Step 5Arrive at mealtime for a dinner party and avoid before-dinner drinks and appetizers.
Step 6Replace sweets with healthy holiday snacks such as fruit baskets and nuts in shells. They look just as festive and are healthier.
Step 7Attend only the parties you really want to go to. You'll save a lot of calories - and time.
Step 8Simplify the meal if you are cooking. Serve raw vegetables with a dip for an appetizer, a low-fat main course with one or two vegetables, and a fruit and low-fat cheese platter for dessert.
Step 9Set realistic goals. At a holiday dinner or party, indulge in some goodies, but eat smaller portions. Have only one glass of wine or Champagne. Take half a slice of pie.
Step 10Avoid skipping meals before a big holiday meal. You don't want to arrive starving and then gorge yourself on sweets and other unhealthy fare.
Step 11Use moderation and relax. If you break down and eat a high-fat dessert, just go easy on what you have the rest of the day or cut back a few calories tomorrow.
Step 12Drink lots of water.
