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Holiday Munching
 

 
Daily Bread
Entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels.
Hebrews 13:2
Eat well without gaining weight

Whether you are at the office or attending a holiday gathering, it’s hard to go anywhere this time of year without being surrounded by scrumptious, high-calorie, high-fat foods.

But repeatedly indulging in these treats can lead to weight gain. Emily Orto-Medley, a registered dietitian at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville, recommends a realistic approach to eating during the holidays.

“Work on maintaining your current weight instead of focusing on weight loss, which may be unrealistic” she said. “It’s OK to eat a little bit here and there. Just make sure to eat smaller portions.”

Follow these tips during holiday gatherings:
  • Try to stay away from the area where tempting treats are located. If food is in the break room, don’t go in there unless it’s really necessary.
  • Drink lots of water during the day.
  • If you get an impulse to grab a high-calorie snack, do something to take your mind off it such as organizing a drawer or walking a few flights of stairs. The impulse likely will pass.
  • Remember that a party should be more about socializing than eating. Try to speak to each person there and make new friends.
  • Fill your plate with raw fruits and vegetables, pretzels and maybe a little cheese and crackers. You can still have some of your favorites, but just don’t overdo it.
  • Eat slowly. It takes about 20 minutes for your stomach to tell your brain that you’re full.
  • At a buffet, enjoy yourself but don’t go overboard. Eat a little of all your favorite foods.

If you end up overindulging, eat lighter the next meal, Orto-Medley said.

Make sure you exercise regularly during the holidays, as well as the rest of the year. Exercise relieves stress and burns extra calories. Purchase a pedometer at a local drug or department store. Pedometers measure the number of steps you take. Experts recommend that each person walk 10,000 steps a day.

Have a happy, healthy holiday!
Published: Dec. 4, 2009
Source: Emily Orto-Medley, registered dietitian at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville


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