What are ways to control calories during the holidays?

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  1. Dr. Michael Roizen
     
    Dr. Michael Roizen answered:
    Want a guilt-free way to feast on holiday fare without loading up on all the button-popping, belly-bulging calories? No problem. Here’s a holiday action plan.
    • Replace temptations. Piling up holiday "goodies" (think pumpkin pie, cookies, and fudge) in plain sight can prompt you to eat twice as much, twice as fast. Instead, keep alternate goodies, such as walnuts, pistachios, cinnamon-spice tea, juicy oranges, and ruby-red pomegranates, within easy reach.
    • Don't skip exercise. Just make it short and sweet. Sticking with your routine during the busy holidays can be tougher than finding a radio station not playing Jingle Bells. Go for three 10-minute walks each day for a total of 30 minutes, and you're good. Too cold out for a walk? Try a home-workout video exercise inside, where it’s warm.

    More Related Answers from Dr. Michael Roizen
    Want a guilt-free way to feast on holiday fare without loading up on all the button-popping, belly-bulging calories? No problem. Here’s a holiday action plan. Replace temptations. Piling up holiday "goodies" (think pumpkin pie, cookies, and... More
  2. Mrs. Marjorie Nolan Cohn
     
    Try following these tips to avoid overeating and control your calories throughout the holiday season:
    • Don't go to a party hungry. Eat a light snack before going out.
    • Choose only the foods you really want and keep the portions small.
    • Make a conscious choice to limit high fat items. Fill up on lower calorie, nutrient dense foods such as fruits, veggies, lean meats and whole grain breads.
    • Drink plenty of water.
    • When you arrive at a party, avoid rushing to the food. Go enjoy some conversation with friends and family first.
    • Eat slowly and enjoy each mouthful.
    • Hold your glass in the hand that you normally eat with to make finger foods less accessible.
    • Contrast flavors, textures and temperatures for more satisfaction in your eating.
    • Avoid grazing while. Little nibbles can really add up!
    • Be physically active every day. Take a walk after a meal if you can.
    More Related Answers from Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
    Try following these tips to avoid overeating and control your calories throughout the holiday season: Don't go to a party hungry. Eat a light snack before going out. Choose only the foods you really want and keep the portions small.... More