-
Step 1
Eat before showing up to a party so you don't feel the need to eat quickly or fill your plate.
-
Step 2
Eat slowly to give your brain time to register messages from your stomach that you are getting full.
-
Step 3
Keep portion-control in mind. Sample everything and don't help yourself to full servings of everything. You can always have more if you are still hungry after one plate.
-
Step 4
Track what you are eating. For instance, if you know you are heading to a BBQ, try to eat more fruits and vegetables during the day because there may not be much to choose from at the event.
-
Step 5
Keep exercising. This doesn't mean you have to keep your gym routine, but throw in some walking after meals or wake up a half hour early to do some light strength training.
-
Step 6
Survey the entire buffet before plopping foods on your plate. This way you can decide what's worth the calories and what's not! When planning your meal in your head, keep in mind balance--take a bit of every food group!
-
Step 7
Experiment with healthy substitutions for your favorite holiday foods. That way you can indulge without the guilt!
-
Step 8
Drink tons of water. Not only is it good for your overall health and digestion, but drinking water before eating makes you feel full faster and inadvertently lowers your calorie intake.
