A healthier holiday - Carolina Country

A healthier holiday

Offer to bring a low-calorie dish to the festivities

A healthier holiday
Cranberries are a festive and nutritious holiday snack.

Holidays are traditionally marked by celebration, family, and food. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the festivities, while keeping a balanced and healthful diet.

Party snacks

Take control. Before a holiday event, eat a snack or light meal. You will be less likely to fill up on high-calorie foods at the event. Fasting before an event may lead you to overeat.

Keep it lean. Go for the vegetable platter and lean proteins, such as shrimp. Try to avoid creamy or fried appetizers.

Bring a dish. Offer to bring a low-calorie dish to the holiday party. It will help your host and your waistline!

Holiday dinner

Pile on the veggies. Fill up on healthful items such as vegetables, salad, and even fruit before going for the more decadent sides.

Reduce your portions. Choose items you want to try the most and eat a small portion of each. This will help you keep your calories down, while still enjoying holiday favorites!

Eat slowly. It takes about 20 minutes for your body to realize you are full. Make sure you slow down and savor your meal to prevent overeating.

Take a walk. After your meal, get moving! It will help your body digest the food and use some of the extra calories you consumed during the meal.

Seasonal sweets

Moderation is key. Enjoy your favorite desserts during the holiday; just be mindful of portion sizes. Sample a small amount of your favorite items. The holidays only come once a year so you should take the opportunity to enjoy the occasional sweet!

Share your dessert. Cut calories in half by sharing your dessert with a friend or family member.

Most importantly, enjoy yourself by making the focus of the holiday season your family and friends, not food.

—National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

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