The feast is over, but the weight of the sweet potato latkes is sticking with us. Check out these tips for post-Thanksgivukkah detox – and preparation for the next onslaught of holiday parties – from Lyssa Weiss, M.S., R.D., C.D.N. and author of The Skinny Jeans Diet: Change Your Thinking, Change Your Eating, and Finally Fit into Your Pants!
1. Don’t fast all day in anticipation of the big meal
This will drop your blood sugar, and you will compensate for your fast as soon as you start to eat. What to do? Eat lighter earlier in the day. This keeps blood sugar levels stable, while allowing you to “bank” a few extra calories for your holiday favorites.
2. “Half Plate” Rule
It is silly to think you won’t indulge at all on holidays. Better to have a sensible game plan. What to do? Whether it is an appetizer, dinner or dessert plate, fill half of the plate with healthy, lower calorie food selections (think fruit and veggies!), and the other half with whatever foods really turn you on. This helps you to avoid feeling deprived, but gives you some portion control as well. Just remember… it is ONE plate!
3. Scan and Select
Think of the calories you eat as money in the bank. Make wise investments with your calories by using the “scan and select” strategy. Grandma’s butternut cake may be worth every calorie, but a baby hot dog not so much. Pick your favorite, favorite foods and eat them. Don’t waste calories on the other stuff.
4. Ask for Help
If you are hosting the event, ask for some help when cleaning up. Socializing while clearing the table makes you less likely to eat while you put the food away. You do not want to be alone with a pile of leftovers at the end of the night.
5. Get Trigger Foods out of the House ASAP!
If there are any trigger foods that were brought by or in honor of a houseguest, send them home with the houseguest.
For more of Lyssa’s tips, visit www.theskinnyjeansdiet.com and https://www.facebook.com/skinnyjeansdiet
