Holiday "Lights"

Joyce Remy

For most of us, the holiday season spells diet disaster! Parties and family get-togethers, Christmas candy and all those rich leftovers it's the lucky celebrator who makes it through the season without decking the scale with a few extra pounds. But with a little thought, you can avoid a lot of the yuletide pitfalls. Here are a few suggestions:

• Don't go to a party hungry. Cut your appetite with a snack beforehand, and be very aware of what you're eating.
  
  
• At parties and holiday meals, eat only the foods you really enjoy. Don't care for stuffing? Just take a taste. Don't be afraid of offending the cook.
  
  
• Full portions of desserts aren't necessary to enjoy someone's holiday baking. Ask for just a sliver of that pie.
  
  
• Choose pumpkin pie over apple or mince and remember that pecan is by far the most calorie-laden. And don't add whipped cream.
  
  
• Skip the gravy, or go very light on it. Adding gravy can easily double the calories and fat on your plate.
  
  
• Remove the skin from turkey or goose. That's where most of the fat is.
  
  
• Try some cookie recipes from a low-fat cookbook.

Eating healthy during this season of temptations is one of the best gifts you can give yourself!

2005 Caresource Healthcare Communications