Keep the Holiday Nibbling From Becoming a New Year's Resolution

The Holidays are here with all the parties, cookies, and beverages. It's enough to sabotage the regimen of even the most dedicated health nut. Which is why I won't be posting a list of goodies to avoid. It's the holidays after all, enjoy them! Just be realistic and practice moderation. Don't try to micro manage your food, starve all day before a dinner party, drink gallons of water, or limit yourself to eating the celery. The worst way to approach the buffet table is with an empty stomach. Have a light snack before leaving the house. (A glass of Carnation Instant Breakfast in skim milk works for me!) You won't be so compelled to pull a chair up to the fondue pot. Keep "portion size" in mind. SAMPLE your favorite things; just don't go back for seconds, thirds.... and keep in mind that alcohol packs a lot of calories (7 calories per gm. as opposed to other carbs that provide only 4). Don't take the cookie plate from your office party back to your desk. Unconscious nibbling is disastrous.
At the end of the day, it's all about the calories. Adjust your exercise routine to compensate for any additional calories. An extra 15 minutes is usually adequate.
When preparing party dishes, DO substitute low fat or non-fat dairy ingredients or cheeses where ever possible; your guests will never miss it, especially where alcohol is being served! DO substitute diet sodas in mixed drinks and beverages. A few drinks can provide more calories than the meal.
Have a safe and healthy holiday season!