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You can still enjoy all the parties, family gatherings and festivities - just be reasonable. Dietitians from The Polyclinic's nutrition management services department offer a few practical suggestions for getting through the holidays without packing on the pounds:
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The Polyclinic's nutrition management services department can be reached at (206) 860-2208, or by visiting their web site at www.polyclinic.com.
About The Polyclinic
The Polyclinic is made up of more than 150 physicians, including internal medicine, family medicine, OB/GYN, oncology and hematology and 23 additional medical and surgical specialties. Since its inception in 1917, The Polyclinic's mission has been to promote the health of its patients through high-quality, comprehensive and personalized care.
-- Be realistic. Don't plan to lose weight during the holidays. Just make it your goal to maintain your weight. -- When going to a holiday party, eat a snack before you go. That way you won't be as likely to scarf down a plate of goodies as soon as you arrive. -- Bring a healthy snack to a potluck. Veggies and low-fat dip or fruit kabobs are festive but not fattening. -- When hosting a party, provide entertainment other than just food. Christmas carols, a classic movie or craft making give guests something to do besides eat. -- Offer a healthy alternative - fresh fruit and fat-free topping instead of pumpkin pie, diet soda and flavored waters instead of eggnog or hot chocolate. -- Substitute healthier ingredients when cooking and baking - applesauce instead of oil in breads, plain yogurt instead of sour cream. -- Go with "light" alternatives - light eggnog, light cream cheese, low fat cheeses and crackers. -- Look for ways to cook healthier. Bake stuffing in a casserole dish instead of in the turkey for less fat, grill foods rather than fry them. -- Remember, not all traditional holiday foods are unhealthy, especially when staying with reasonable portions! Yams are a great source of potassium and vitamin A and turkey has protein - it's usually the "add-on's" that get you into trouble, like high fat gravy and butter. -- Eat in moderation. You don't have to go without your favorite foods - just limit the quantity. -- Try a trick like using a smaller plate so you'll start with smaller portions. Also, it takes your brain 20 minutes to get the message you're full, so eat slowly. -- Take a long walk after meals instead of a nap!
SOURCE The Polyclinic
