So it’s that time of year––time for turkey and stuffing, ham and macaroni and cheese, and pies, cakes and cookies galore. What’s a girl (or body conscious guy) to do?
No one in their right mind can say no to grandma’s cobbler or mom’s macaroni and cheese (my mom puts her foot in this dish!). Below are a few tips on how you can enjoy the yummy foods of the holiday season, without enjoying a larger pants size when the season is over!
Eat First
I know, this sounds backwards, but hear me out. Before heading to Auntie’s for Thanksgiving dinner, eat a little something healthy. Maybe have a salad or some fruit––anything so that you will have a bit more control around that German Chocolate cake!
The “I’ve already ruined my diet” Syndrome
I’m guilty of it too. You just say, “What the hell? I’ve already had two plates of glazed ham and butter rolls, I might as well try the roast beef and smoked turkey while I’m at it. I’ve already blown my diet.” Yes, holiday foods like those mentioned are not typically in one's daily diet, but newsflash: an extra calorie is still an extra calorie. Don’t just throw in the towel, fight! Fight like hell to still fit into your skinny jeans come 2009!
Look Out for Plate Pushing Grandmas
I know we all hate to hurt Grandma’s feelings, but it’s ok to say no to that extra plate. No matter how many times she says “Oh baby, you’re all skin and bones” or “you won’t lose that shape with one more piece or corn bread.” (Is anyone feeling me or is this just my grandmother?) I know there is no conspiracy by your loving relatives to ruin your diet, but avoid this like the plague!
Balance is the Key
Ok, so you know there is no way you can say no to that second plate of mom’s macaroni and cheese and you love apple pie so you know you’ll be eating a bit of that as well. What to do? Be smart on the day before. Consume fewer calories that day (or even that week leading up to the big dinner). Stock up on greens and Lean Cuisines so that you “make room” for the glorious calories to come.
Drink & Be Merry…but not too Merry
So I have bad news––liquor has calories in it. I know, I didn't want to believe it either! Easy on the candy cane martinis and eggnog.
It’s a Family Affair
Plan a family walk or dance off. (Again, is it just my family that breaks into MJ dance moves after turkey?) Get active with the family after the meal so you all feel a little less guilty about those multiple plates.
So there you have it. This list is by no means complete, but if you follow my advice you may minimize the damage to your waistline that the holidays can bring. Enjoy the food and the family just be smart about it.
Happy eating!
Photography by GMO Photographer Billy Montgomery. Model: Tatianah Green
