By Lauren Cooper
I love the holidays, despite the fact that I hate the cold weather. The one qualm I 
have about this time of year is the tradition of eating till we feel like we’ll burst. Yuck! So inevitably we put on 6 pounds (depending upon your metabolism and willpower) within 6 weeks and then vow to work it off as our New Year’s resolution . I say down with this gluttonous tradition!!! Check out these tips for enjoying your favorite holiday dishes without having to exchange those new jeans for the next size up!
Stay Active: It’s so delightful to stay nice and cozy after a large meal and skip the gym. Unfortunately, it’s a necessary evil. If you can’t drag yourself to the treadmill, go window shopping. Just by walking for 30 minutes you’ll keep your metabolism in check and burn off some calories. Or think of it as stress relief, walking in fresh air can clear your mind.
Portion Control: Ok, duh! We all know that we should watch our serving sizes but this is even more essential during the holidays. Your body becomes used to certain eating habits you have during the rest of the year, so if you go overboard with mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes and cornbread, you’ll start craving more of those carbs. Similarly, if you can’t get enough pumpkin (my fav!) or apple pie and sugar cookies, it’ll be harder for you to pass on the sweets after the holidays. So limit yourself to one serving of your favorite dish. And savor it.
Eat This, Not That: The best selling book series has a few things to say about holiday meals. Some highlights to eating right this season:
- Eat white meat, not dark.
- Try green beans instead of stuffing. (I say just have a smidge of stuffing and load up on the greens)
- Mashed potatoes instead of sweet potatoes (so hard, I know but those marshmallows and brown sugar are death to diets)
- Opt for a sliver pumpkin pie instead of pecan pie. Not a fan of pumpkin? Try a sugar cookie or baked apples with cinnamon instead.
Eat, Drink and Be Merry: There’s always plenty of food and booze at holiday parties. Even so, it’s wise to eat something healthy before you head out. This way you won’t be starving and overindulge on mini quiche. Choose a lighter, sparkly drink to make yourself feel full. I like vodka and soda with a generous splash of cranberry juice. Champagne or hot cider are good options as well.
No matter what your tradition, the Urban Girl Squad family hopes you enjoy your time with friends and family; and wishes you a happy and healthy Turkey Day!
Photos courtesy of Getty Images and Marie Claire
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