How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays

The holiday season can fill your nights with many "F" words. Family, friends and fun are among the printable ones. On the top of that list is food. Late night shopping, office parties and traveling home for the holidays all can turn healthy eating habits into a tailspin, leaving you feeling like a Grinch.

Let's start with holiday parties. Cocktail parties or beginning your party at the bar can lead to a full binge. They tend to kick off the night full of salty snacks that will increase your thirst and make you prone to drink more. Choose smart finger food and drinks. Try starting the night with a club soda or a light white wine spritzer. Shrimp with cocktail sauce is a great beginning. They are high in protein, iron and lycopene! Raw oysters and clams, vegetables and dip, and smoked salmon on pumpernickel all make additional starts. When the "meal" begins, start with a fresh garden salad or a non-cream based soup. If you give in to the bread basket, take a slice of whole wheat bread or crackers. The fiber is related to a reduced risk of diseases and contributes to a feeling of fullness.

During meal or buffet, eat smaller amounts of a variety of entries. Sampling can help you feel like you have not deprived yourself. Be aware of your choices; do not automatically go for extra helpings when you are catching up with Aunt Flo. Excellent entries include seafood. Even the fattiest fish tends to be leaner than lean meats. Broiled fish in lemon juice or white wine is amazing. White meat poultry has half the fat of the darker portions, and do not forget to remove the skin. Pasta and rice based dishes can be good choices, but not more than a third of your plate and be wise about your sauces. Cream sauces (i.e. Alfredo) are loaded with excess fat and calories. Accompany your entrée with vegetables, again choose freshly cooked without creamy sauces. Baked, roasted or eve mashed potatoes are a better choice than fried. Be sparing with the butter and the sour cream. Try Worcheshire, Tabasco or mustard.