Eat Pretty

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The holidays are coming and for many, that can mean challenging situations that pose great risk on even the best healthy eating plan. On average, Americans gain about a pound at holiday time which may not seem like a lot but we usually don’t lose this pound. Long term, after ten years, you’ve put on a lot of extra weight. Short term, all the sugar, calories, sodium and fat that you’ve consumed during the holidays may make for an extra wrinkle and dull skin for the New Year. You CAN survive the holidays though with a few simple tactics. Here’s my top 10 list.

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 1.    Party at home beforehand

• Enjoying a small snack of nuts, string cheese and a few whole grain crackers will mean you’re arriving at the party satisfied already, not starving.  The holiday buffet has so many food and drink options that if you go in hungry, you’re doomed.

 2.    Be the last in line

• Never underestimate the visual power of food and how if effects appetite. The buffet or appetizer table looks great when you’re the lucky first man to it. Once a large amount of people have gone through, the food loses its luster. Imagine the potatoes au gratin with the crusty topping—it’s usually gone by the time you get to it if you’re last in line.

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 3.    Drink all night - with a wine spritzer

• Having too much alcohol is a sure fire way to lose control on the dance floor and at the buffet table. Instead, mix two ounces of wine with club soda, a little cranberry juice and lime juice for a wine spritzer. You’ll be able to draw out your drinks throughout the night without getting out of control.
• Remember—many holiday drinks are loaded with calories that add up quickly!

Egg Nog = 350 calories BEFORE the alcohol for 1 cup
Vodka on the rocks (1.5 oz) = 96 calories
Martini (4 oz) = 160 calories
Wine (5 oz) = 100 calories

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 4.    Avoid reindeer sweaters and any elastic waisted holiday outfit

• The pant suit you thought looked great last year with the elastic waist will spell trouble at the holiday party because it will allow you to eat tons of food without feeling discomfort. You WANT to be able to feel it when you’ve gotten out of control so keep your pants or skirt on the tighter side. Belts work nice too.