The holiday season is upon us once again.  For people concerned about their weight, it can be the most challenging time of the year.  Here are some simple eating and cooking strategies for dealing with the next few weeks. 

SHOPPING – Instead of taking ten minutes to find a parking space near the store, park as far from the store that you can.  When the packages get heavy, walk back to the car and lock them in your trunk.  Then return to the store, refreshed from your walk.  If shopping makes you hungry, take a small snack such as a piece of fruit, a cheese stick or an ounce of nuts. 

PARTY HINTS – Offer to bring hor d’oeuvres.  Bring vegetables with a low-fat dip, fresh fruit or boiled shrimp.  Before going to the party, have a glass of water and a salad with low calorie dressing, a cup of low fat yogurt, a piece of turkey or a cheese stick.  Dilute your drinks with plenty of ice, water or club soda.  If there is a buffet, load your plate with vegetables and only small amounts of other foods.  Eat slowly and enjoy it.  If you can’t live without a dessert, split it with someone.  Almost everyone overeats at some time.  If you do, balance it with light meals before and/or after the party. 

HOSTESS HINTS – When making stuffing, use reduced sodium chicken broth and plenty of vegetables instead of butter.  Before making gravy, separate out as much fat as possible.  Serve mini muffins or small rolls.  You can have one without over-doing the calories.  Follow the recipe for cranberry sauce on the package of cranberries, but substitute Splenda for the sugar.  Send the high calorie leftovers home with you guests. 

Find time to keep up you normal exercise routine or start a new one now.  Walk around your neighborhood in the evening and enjoy all the holiday decorations.  The not only helps with exercise, but it also helps lower stress.

 Only eat until you are full.  Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.  Many times people eat when they would really be satisfied with a glass of water.  Enjoy an occasional treat; limit yourself to a small, flavorful piece or two.  Take you time to enjoy it without doing anything else at the same time. 

Have a happy and healthy holiday season.