Article by Caterina Christakos

Ok the holidays are here, along with all the delicious and fattening treats that we all suddenly decide to make and serve. Going to holiday parties are fun but temptations abound. So how do you enjoy yourself without gaining weight? It is actually easier than you think. Decide ahead of time to make smart decisions and with this game plan in mind you will naturally eat less than most of your friends, and neighbors.

Here are a few simple tips that are easy to implement:

1) Eat something healthy before you go the party. An apple has fiber and can be a good way to feel slightly full before you get there. Or munch on some carrot sticks. The more full you feel before attending the holiday festivities, the easier it will be to turn down the higher calorie snacks.

2) Look for the cold cuts and cheese platters. Their high protein low carb dynamic will fill you up while keeping your sugar levels in check. This will limit your cravings. The fat content will help you feel fuller and limit your dessert temptations later.

3) Sip on water throughout the evening. Stick a piece of lime in a Perrier if you want others to think you are drinking. The water will fill you up and the time you spend in the restroom will be time away from the appetizers. If you are worried about bloating go for flat water like evian.

4) Skip the cocktails and go straight for a glass of wine if you want an alcoholic beverage. Wine has a low glycemic index which means that it also will not spike your sugar and therefore will not cause cravings. Red wine has a lower Gi then white so go for the red if you can and stay away from the mixed drinks.

5) Skip the nuts. They are tasty but it is way too easy to eat too many of them. Have a small piece of cheese instead and you will feel just as full without needing to eat that much.

6) Practice your conversational skills. Instead of snacking, converse with others, even those you have never met. You may make some new friends and the conversation will distract you from the need to eat. Or designate yourself as the bartender. Mixing drinks will keep you from eating or drinking too much.

7) If they have fresh fruit for dessert go for that instead of the cheesecakes and chocolates. Just wait a half hour after eating anything else before eating your fruit dessert. It will digest much easier. If you are feeling a bit deprived splash a teaspoon of Chambord on top.

Eating well and with an eye on health for the holidays is easier than you think. You just need to decide to eat healthy ahead of time and stick to your decisions. Healthy eating Is all about planning. Go light on the alcohol and those decisions will be even easier to make. So as you can see you can still have fun while staying slim and attractive.

About the Author

Caterina Christakos is a published author and reviewer. Read her latest reviews of hudson jeans sale and 7 for mankind.