Helpful Holiday Hints to Stay Healthy

The holidays are not only synonymous with gift-giving, but also with eating. We all tend to overindulge whether we are celebrating at an office party, a friend or relative’s house, or at our own home. Holiday festivities can cause a great deal of anxiety for those who want to maintain control over their diet. With a bit of preparation and a small dose of willpower, this wonderful time of the year can be enjoyed without guilt -- or unwanted weight gain, according to Lillian Sonnenberg, DSc, RD, and senior manager of the nutrition center at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Following are some of her tips on how to win the battle of the bulge during the holiday season.

HOLIDAY PARTIES

* Don’t arrive too hungry. Eat some fruit or crackers prior to the party.

* Try to stay away from the food/buffet table while socializing. It is difficult to eat and talk at the same time, so circulating and engaging in conversation will decrease time spent eating.

* Watch alcohol intake. Alcohol consumption can stimulate overeating and add empty calories.

HOLIDAY BAKING

* Substitute yogurt or applesauce for fatty ingredients in desserts.

* Offer guests lower-fat items like fruits, vegetables, low-fat dips and lean meats.

HOLIDAY EXERCISE

* Take a family walk after dinner.

* Wear walking shoes and increase the pace walking from store to store.

* Try standing at a table and doing knee bends while wrapping gifts.

* Try not to abandon regular exercise routines.