Reasonable Holiday Eating Strategies

Last week, we shared lots of healthier Thanksgiving recipes & substitutions to re-make your favorites. But, soon, it will be time to eat!

Here are some strategies for a happy, healthier Thanksgiving meal. Choose which will work for you.
- Aim to maintain (not lose) weight during the holidays.
- Offer to cook or bring a healthy dish.
- More physical activity will help balance extra calories. It may take a few days to compensate.
- Eat small, light meals with fiber, lean proteins, & healthy fats throughout the day.
- Don't go to the party hungry.
- Practice what you will say to food-pushers.
- Stay out of arm's reach of foods designed to nibble.
- Survey the whole table before starting. Watch portion size when eating rich or a larger quantities.
- Choose which foods you'll enjoy most.
- If it all looks good, take a small taste of everything.
- Stop eating if it doesn't taste great.
- Pick a smaller plate, bowl, or glass (to make equal amounts feel more fulfilling.)
- Fill your plate with healthier choices such as fruits, sauceless veggies, lean proteins, etc.
- Use your senses to fully appreciate the food-- the smell, colors, texture, taste, etc.
- Eat slowly & chew food thoroughly.
- Limit high-calorie beverages (e.g., soda, fruit punch, alcohol, egg nog, etc.).

For details &/or more tips, check out:
- ABC News' Eating Strategies for Healthier Holiday Parties
- WebMD's Holiday Food & Diet Tips
- Real Simple's 9 Healthy Holiday-Eating Strategies
- a few more recipe tweaks at the Mayo Clinic's Remakes of Favorite Recipes.

Or, sign up for the Maintain, Don't Gain Holiday Challenge. This free program delivers weekly electronic inspiration from 11/25 - 12/31.