Surviving the Holidays A Little Thinner

It's that time of year again. Holiday time! What would the holidays be without all the good food and time spent with family and friends? They can be a great, joyous time or a very stressful time of the year for people who are trying to watch their waistlines.

Take this scenario for instance: You are getting ready for one of the many parties you'll attend this season and you suddenly realize that healthy diet that you have stuck to is about to go out the window. Well, maybe not!! Here are some very helpful tips for maintaining your weight and even continuing to lose weight during the holidays.

• Don't skip any meals or snacks the day of the party. By skipping meals, thinking you will "save" calories you are doing more damage then good. Eating all meals and snacks you will be less hungry at the party and less likely to overeat.
  
  
• Try to schedule a workout the day of the party. Just because it's the holiday season doesn't mean you should take a holiday from exercise. Take a walk around the neighborhood, go for a bike ride, or play a game of tag with the kids. If you start your day off right, you'll be more motivated to stick to your diet.
  
  
• If your host/hostess has asked you to bring a covered dish to the party make sure to make a healthy dish. This way you can be sure you will have something healthy to eat. You can lighten your favorite holiday recipes with fat free broths instead of butter or oil. Cut down the amounts of sugar and fat by using yogurt, applesauce or pumpkin in place of sugar and oil. Use Splenda® in place of sugar in your favorite recipes.
  
  
• Remember, some beverages like alcohol, are loaded with calories plus it can dehydrate you and decrease your willpower. If you plan on having an alcoholic drink, remember to drink a large glass of water before and after each drink.
  
  
• Remember what the holiday season is about. It's about spending time with loved ones. Try to enjoy the company of others and good cheer instead of focusing on food.