​Healthy holiday eating: How to feast without over indulging

A wonderful time of the year: the holidays. Celebrating with family and friends and enjoying time together. If only there wasn’t that dreaded step on the scale afterwards. According to the National Institutes of Health, holiday eating can result in an extra pound or two every year. Which doesn’t sound like much, but it does add up in the course of the years. This year, don’t pack on the pounds during the holidays or compromise on your current health situation. By keeping in mind a few simple tips you can stay healthy through the holiday season:

Hit the buffet! But do it wisely: check the food before loading your plate. Get a small plate, choose your favorite foods and skip your least favorite. Include vegetables and fruits to keep your plate balanced. Then stay away, so you’re not tempted to go back or nibble over conversations.

Eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed. When it’s time to sit down at the dinner table, help yourself to small portions and avoid fried food. Choose steamed, grilled, baked, or broiled items instead and don’t ignore the vegetables. Wait a few minutes before you reach for seconds. Check your appetite: are you really still hungry, or do you just crave another bite of delicious turkey or pie? You don’t have to skip dessert, but have just a bite or share. If you overeat at one meal, just go light on the next. Avoid snacking on leftovers or between meals.

Cut the liquid calories: not only can alcohol increase your appetite, it also comes with quite a few calories, so limit your intake and watch out for sugary non-alcoholic drinks. Opt for water with a splash of lemon or fruit juice instead.

Don’t drop the exercise: make sure you exercise once a day, e.g. take a brisk 15 minute walk each morning. At a family celebration, suggest a walk after a meal or before dessert. If you have a regular routine, try to keep it up.

Show family and friends that you care: treat them to healthy, yet delicious food by cutting butter, cream, lard, vegetable shortening, and other ingredients rich in saturated fats and cholesterol. Prepare turkey or fish instead of red meat with heavy sauces. Offer a variety of interesting greens and salads that aren’t overdressed. As far as sweet treats go, look towards fruit instead of pie.

Last but not least: Remember that the holidays aren’t about food, but about spending time with family and friends. Plan activities that aren’t all about food like doing crafts, playing games or taking a walk outside.

To learn more about enjoying the holidays with delicious, yet healthy food choices and meal preparation without missing out on the fun, participate in the free healthcare lecture ‘Healthy Holiday Eating’ provided by Providence Park Hospital. The lecture takes place on Wednesday, December 7, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Novi Public Library, 45255 W. 10 Mile Road. For registration or information, call 1-888-751-5465.