The holidays are a time of excess. We eat, drink and indulge from Thanksgiving through New Year's Day because the temptations are often too difficult to resist.
Avoid over-indulging with these tips:
Eat before you go to a party- If you skip meals, you are more likely to overeat later. Eat a substantial snack before going to a party to avoid stuffing yourself with everything in sight.
Slow down when you eat- It takes about 20 minutes from the time you eat until your brain gets the signal that you are full. So eat slowly, put down your fork between bites, and take a moment to sit back and relax.
Downsize your portions- Portion size control is the key to healthy eating. Take a taste or two of your favorite foods, but try not to overindulge. Fill your plate with a variety of items from all food groups and keep portions reasonable.
Keep track of what you eat- Writing down the food you eat throughout the day makes you more aware of your eating habits. You will be more likely to recognize if unhealthy eating behaviors sneak up on you.
Maintain your exercise routine- The holidays are a busy time, but try not to skip your usual exercise routine. Exercise is needed most during the holiday season to burn those extra calories that are often consumed.
Plan your meal- Survey the entire buffet before filling your plate. Try not to waste calories on food that you don't really like. Remember to aim for variety and to eat small portions.
Make healthier versions of traditional holiday food- Experiment with new recipes and don't be afraid to substitute low fat for regular ingredients.
Stay hydrated- Enjoy the fancy holiday beverages, but drink plenty of water as well.
© 2007 The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. All rights reserved.
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