Healthy Holiday Eating
Social events often seem to revolve around food. At this time of year celebrations, holidays and family gatherings can all be times where food holds a central place. You may feel that social engagements are less enjoyable because many of the high-calorie foods and beverages served are not part of your healthy eating plan. Here are some easy tips to help you have a good time at social events and still stay on your healthy eating program.
Entertaining
 You may feel pressure to eat when you are not hungry; ask yourself what makes you feel this way. Are you concerned that it will draw attention if you do not eat as much food or the same foods as others? Observe what people are eating and the reactions they receive. You will be surprised to see that there is more to the event than the food!
- Focus on the enjoyable non-food aspects of the event, such as the view, the service, and conversations with friends and family.
- Focus on the positive rewards of your new healthy lifestyle, the added confidence you feel, or the ability to stand longer without knee or back pain.
- Position yourself on the other side of the room from the food table.
- Practice saying, "No, thank you" politely yet firmly, if you are concerned that you will offend the host/hostess by refusing food. You might also say, "I’m pacing myself," "I’m not hungry," or "I’m trying to lose weight."
Entertaining in your own home
- Consider serving healthy foods. It’s likely many of your guests are watching their weight and would appreciate healthy menu options.
- Send leftovers home with your guests, or freeze them immediately. If this isn’t practical, don’t be afraid to throw food away.
- Immerse dishes and utensils in soapy water immediately to prevent nibbling.
Eating at someone else’s house
- Call ahead to find out what’s on the menu; this will allow you to plan accordingly.
- Establish a calorie budget for the day.
- Offer to bring a dish that fits into your eating plan.
- Move your conversations away from the food table.
- Hold a beverage (low-calorie) in your hands. Being empty-handed can make you feel uncomfortable.
- Ask for small portions or offer to help serve.
- Fill your plate with lean protein and fruits and vegetables.
Holidays
It’s often harder to stay on a healthy eating plan when you are away on holidays because you have less control over food choices and are unfamiliar with your surroundings. Therefore, planning ahead is critical.
- Avoid the all-or-nothing mindset. Monitor your food choices by keeping a food diary.
- Ask yourself, "What are my weight goals for my holiday?" Do you plan to continue to lose weight or just maintain your weight?
- How long will your trip take from door to door? What meals would you normally eat during that time?
- Check out your fast food options ahead of time. Many offer low-calorie options or smaller portions. Pre-plan some acceptable choices.
- Bring an esky with foods stocked to eliminate the need for fast food or restaurant dining.
- If you are flying contact the airline in advance for special food requests. Or carry a meal replacement bar with you.
- If possible, stay in an apartment or holiday house that has a refrigerator and other cooking facilities or request a hotel room with a refrigerator.
- Limit alcohol consumption. Alcoholic drinks have a lot of calories and very little nutritional benefit.
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