10 Tips to Survive Holiday Eating

Over the last four years and 101 lost lbs I have invariably had to wade my way through my fair share of holidays. This weekend we are celebrating Thanksgiving here in Canada and this very topic came up in one of my challenge groups. I listed a few things out and then thought, hey, more people need to know this. They need to know that you CAN enjoy eating at the holidays without the guilt and uncomfortable waistline.

So here they are…

Top Ten Tips To Survive Holiday Eating

1. Drink a big glass of water before you go out or before you get into the eating. You will more than likely be eating more sodium than usual, you will probably be having a drink or two, plus that big drink of water will help fill you up a bit.

2. When you first arrive take a good look at the appetizer table. Take a small plate then go sit down. Don't GRAZE the appetizer table!

3. Speaking of the appys head for the fresh cut veggies first. Don't forget to be careful of dips. I love dips. I can get carried away with dips.



4. Don't be afraid to have a little bit of everything, but for your sake TAKE SAMPLE SIZES. You don't have to have a full scoop of everything, just try a bit, there is lots to take in.

5. When it comes to the main course try choosing a smaller plate. Dinner plates now are WAY bigger than they used to be. Taking a smaller plate is a great trick because it fills up faster and gives you that visual illusion that you are eating more.

6. Keep your servings sizes in check. If you have those awesome containers from the 21 Day Fix don't be afraid to take them. And use them. Hey, they may even start up some conversation ;) 

7. Watch out with salads. While they maaaay seem like a healthy option they are often loaded with creamy or oily dressings. By all means still have some, but be aware. Same thing goes if you are putting dressing on your own salad. A little goes a long way. 

8. Load up half your plate with the veggie options. They should be taking that space up anyways. 

9. With holidays comes eating, and with holiday eating comes holiday DRINKING. Those drinks do come with calories, and while they go down fast, that is just how easy it is to consume a lot of calories over a short period of time. Pace yourself. Stick to a couple drinks tops. And try to have a glass of water in between. 

10. Pumpkin pie. Apple pie. Pumpkin cheesecakes. Lemon pie. Chocolate something. Whatever dessert is going to be gracing your holiday table HAVE SOME!!! But having some doesn't mean going all out. Ask for a half a slice, nothing wrong with that at all. 

BONUS: Be thankful for every bite you have. There are so many less fortunate in the world. I'm not trying to be a downer but when you are thankful, truly, you savour your food more, you don't rush through it. Slow down. Enjoy. Enjoy the family, enjoy the friends, the holiday is not just about the food but the people you share it with. 

Have a Happy Holiday Season.