Portion Control Holiday Style
The holidays are here, and we all know that means great food and lots of treats. Our office breakrooms and houses are full of many of once a year goodies. We all have our favorite treats that we wait all year to enjoy. The temptation might be too hard to resist so if you can’t say no, focus on portion control. Instead of two yummy pieces of fudge just eat one or share your treat with someone else. Place your treats in the cupboard and out of sight every time you go into the kitchen.
Keep these tips in mind to have a healthier holiday:
- Less is More! Use smaller dishes and don’t go back for seconds.
- Table Tip. Don’t keep platters of food on the table; you are more likely to pick at it or have a second serving without even realizing it.
- Split it. If you are eating Christmas dinner out this year, ask for half or smaller portions or immediately put half of your entrée into a to-go box to take home with you.
- Dessert Dilemma. If you can’t resist that piece of pie for dessert, split it with someone.
- Don’t Graze. Avoid those pre-dinner snacks like the bread, chips, cheese and cracker platters. When snacking, go for the fruits and veggies, or place a few chips, crackers or cookies on a small plate to help prevent overeating.
- Stop eating when you begin to feel full. Sit down and enjoy your meal. Chew slowly and pay attention to textures and flavors and when you are full, focus on enjoying the setting and your friends or family for the rest of the meal.
- Take A Walk. If you can’t resist that second portion, then take a walk after dinner or maintain your exercise routine and burn some of those calories off.
