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Strategies to Cope with Holiday Eating

No More Excuses
-- By Becky Hand, Licensed & Registered Dietitian

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house,
Everyone was eating?even the mouse!

The most wonderful time of the year is back, and that means one thing: notorious holiday parties! Between the office buffet, neighborhood open house, family gatherings, religious festivities, and community get-togethers, sticking to a healthy eating and exercise plan becomes, well, difficult to say the least.

The reason? Simple. Tempting, high fat, calorie-laden dishes are the common denominator of almost every holiday celebration. And excuses for overindulgence are as easy to find as holiday cheer.
Check out the following excuses. If any of them sounds familiar, don't worry. BabyFit has the strategies to help you deal with these excuses, and still enjoy the holiday season.
Excuse #1: The food looks and tastes so good! How can I resist?
It's true-there will be plenty of terrific foods. But will you feel good after you eat them? Imagine yourself overindulging. How do you feel afterwards? Was the taste really worth it? Could you have received the same pleasure with a smaller amount?
Excuse #2: It's a special occasion. It only comes once a year.
The holidays only come once a year, but the parties, events, and gifts of food never seem to end! Remove the word "splurge" from your vocabulary. Remember, moderation is key!
Excuse #3: Everyone else is eating. The hostess will be offended.
Just because everyone is eating does not mean that you have to eat everything too. Choosing smaller portions shouldn't offend anyone. Remember, "If you half-it, you can have it." And sometimes it may be necessary to "just say no".
Excuse #4: I should offer desserts to the company in my home.
Keeping your favorite desserts at home usually spells trouble. When treats are in the house, more of the dessert usually ends up in you, rather than your guests. Therefore, keep some low fat, healthier alternatives on hand. Check out BabyFit's Dessert Recipes for some ideas. Make a trip to your local library and flip through the healthy holiday cooking magazines and books for other creative alternatives.
Excuse #5: I'll get back to my healthy eating plan tomorrow.
This thinking is okay, as long as it is realistic. Make sure an occasional splurge does NOT become a repeated excuse (or turn into "next week" or "next month").
Putting It All Together?

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About The Author
Becky Hand
Becky is a registered and licensed dietitian with almost 20 years of experience. She teaches prenatal classes and counsels individuals, helping women eat right and stay fit before, during and after their pregnancies.
Becky Hand

 


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