1. Eat several low-fat, nutritious snacks throughout the day. Don’t let yourself get really hungry. When really hungry, you are more likely to make bad food choices.
2. When eating holiday meals:
a. Take small portions and eat slowly—it will help you eat less. This is especially true when the holiday buffet has many foods. If you take a full serving of eight different items, you’ll be overeating.
b. Begin with fresh fruit and vegetables to decrease your appetite. That will make it easier to eat smaller amounts of foods that are high in starch, sugar and fat.
c. Be selective about what you eat. You may choose not to eat the cheese and crackers because you can have them any time. Instead, you may choose to save those calories for a small slice of pumpkin pie.
d. Don’t be coaxed into eating more than you want. Give yourself permission to say, “Thank you for offering, but I’m trying to avoid gaining weight during the holidays.”
3. If you’re contributing to a holiday meal, consider bringing a low-fat dish such as fresh fruits or vegetables. It will be one dish that you’ll be able to eat guilt-free.
4. Move your body some way, somehow every day. You may be extra busy, but find just 10 minutes to be active. Walk, dance, ride an exercise bike or play with the kids. Do this one to three times a day, every day. You’ll be glad you did. It will decrease your stress and help you avoid weight gain.