Tis' the season for parties and gatherings galore. This means YUMMY eats and libations at every turn. With all the excitement, holiday cheer and great company it is never easy (for most of us anyway) to gather with friends, family, snacks and beverages and to always make the right choices. And don't misunderstand me, there is some wiggle room here. I am all for treating yourself extra special over the holiday season but if we go into this time of year without a plan and a few strategies in place if can easily turn into a disasterous situation. This can begin a vicious cycle that continues long past the holidays or can make lots of extra work for you when hitting the gym come January 2nd:)

My top 10 strategies are:

1) Make a plan. This does not have to be a long drawn out book (unless you want it to be) but give it a quick visual outline, maybe 5-10 minutes or so. What do you want it to feel like or look like when all is said and done. Example: How do I feel when I have had too much? Do I want to feel like that? Who will be there? Will this affect your eating and drinking hablts? If I am eating from the sweet treats table can I walk away? What are my limits?

2) Follow through. Follow through with your plan. You made this plan from a clear state of mind before you were doped up on sugar and trans fat. Honor that.

3)  Bring the veggie tray. If you need to bring something, make it the veggie tray. You can DIY or pick up precut veggies for $9.99 at Sam's Club and there are never too many veggies at a holiday party. Need a dip for those veggies grab some hummus.

4) Eat before you go. Whether you are not sure whats on the menu or trying to avoid getting involved with the snack table try some lean protein and veggies to keep those cravings at bay.

5) Pocket full of almonds. Grab a handful of almonds or other raw nuts to keep in your pocket for munching. Nuts can be a satisfying treat to ward off temptation. Add some organic dried raisins or cranberries to hit that sweet spot as well.

6) Mingle around the room. Set down the food and walk away from the table. Standing by the treats table (or bar for that matter) is a sure fire way to rev up mindless eating (or drinking), especially if you get caught talking to that special someone that has a night full of stories they must share.

7) Fill your plate with protein and veggies. Protein is satisfying and veggies are nourishing. This combination helps to keep the craving devil under control. And if you skip the starchy carbs you open a window for a possible sweet treat for dessert.

8) Do a double take on the sugar. Whether it is dessert on a plate or in a glass this stuff can have major effects on your mind, body and soul. Think twice before indulging.

9) Alcohol. First, have a designated driver and know your limits. If you are having a beverage or 2, try red wine which offers beneficial anti-oxidants. Or keep it low carb with a mixed drink using water or seltzer. Try using lemon, lime or oranges to sweetened versus the presweetened alternatives. Or perhaps just seltzer water on the rocks with fresh squeezed lime and salted rim. Whatever you choose be safe.

10) Recovery Plan. Have a back up plan so if you do vear off course you can easily cut your losses and move forward. Try giving your self permission to make mistakes and use that lesson to move onto the next party.

By putting 1,2,5 or all 10 of these strategies in place this may greatly reduce your chances of starting the new year off with an energy deficit. Be ready to go and full of energy to kick off the new year!!

Cheers and joyful blessings to a safe and healthy holiday!

Beth

PS. Don't forget to eat your veggies!

Please leave a comment if you have any strategies that have helped you get threw the holiday season.

**This information is for education only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat or prescribe.**