courtesy the RD's at BMI
It’s Easter! And for many, it’s a time for fun with family and friends and indulging in foods such as chocolate.
Focusing on healthy eating doesn’t mean holidays need to be eliminated or avoided. It means focusing on indulgences AND healthy eating AND physical activity, all in moderation.
Make your healthy eating goals realistic—think about maintaining your weight, as opposed to losing. This allows you room for enjoying foods without feeling deprived. Depriving yourself of certain foods can set you up for over eating.
Treat each meal as a separate event. If you have a less than ideal dinner, don’t fret – simply try to do better at the next meal.
Record everything you consume as this will help with awareness.
Pay attention to how quickly you eat—pace, don’t race. Holidays happen once a year—take time to enjoy the flavours.
Alcohol is packed with calories. Bring along diet pop to “cut” your drinks. Try a light beer or wine instead of the mixed drinks. If you do drink, do so with food or immediately after words.
If you’re eating at friends or family, bring a low-calorie dish with you. At least you’ll know there is one “safe” item.
If you are hosting a get together, add lots of vegetable dishes. Try the recipe finder on cookinglight.com for reduced-calorie favourites.
Do not ‘save’ your calories for dinner by eating less during the day. This will result in over eating.
Eat food because you want it, not simply because it’s there and you’re hungry.
Spoil your appetite before going to an event. Going on an empty stomach means you’ll be hungry, which will lead to over eating.
Look at all the food being offered before you choose. Pick dishes that you will really enjoy as opposed to trying everything that is offered. If you do try a variety of dishes, keep an eye on portion sizes.
Use smaller plates. People will eat 20-30% less if they have smaller plates and are served from smaller dishes.
Make a plan of what you are going to eat ahead of time. Do your homework – ask the host(s) what they are planning to serve.
