Holiday Eating: Party Hearty Without Putting on the Pounds! by Marsha J. Hudnall, MS, RD, CD

The holidays are definitely a special time of year. These days, however, many women wonder whether "special" means happy -- or stressful. Do you know anyone who doesn't feel more stress during the holiday season? One thing is for sure: Stress is a six-letter word that can spell added trouble for many women who struggle with food, eating and weight.

A national survey of women conducted earlier this year revealed that women see stress and lack of energy as two of their top health issues. But here's where it gets interesting: Women were twice as likely as men to snack as a way of dealing with stress!

So how do you enjoy the famous holiday party time that seems to start with coffee breaks at work or weekend brunches and last through dessert parties late in the evening without overdoing on all those wonderful foods? Here's a list of ideas to consider that can help reduce holiday stress, boost energy and maximize your ability to make smart choices to support you in your efforts to feel well and stay healthy.

Keep It Simple

The absolute first "must" for enjoying your holidays is to keep it simple. Be realistic in what you want to accomplish…and what you expect others to accomplish, too. Discuss holiday plans with family and friends. Consider paring down your "to do" list, and get a commitment from others to share in the extra holiday tasks that create extra fun for everyone.

Feed Yourself Well

A party later in the evening doesn't mean skimping on food during the day. All that will do is set you up for overeating because you get too hungry. Instead, eat regular, balanced meals and snacks that include grains/starchy vegetables, protein foods and fruits and/or vegetables every 3-5 hours when you are hungry, and stopping when you are satisfied.

Likewise, if you overdo it at one meal or party (and who doesn't on occasion?), don't try to "make up" for it at your next meals. Go back to your regular eating plan as described above.

Dance the Night Away!

Physical activity may provide the biggest boost to your ability to cope during the holidays. Not only is it a natural outlet for tension (and consequently another way to cope), physical activity boosts our energy level and our motivation to keep going.

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BIO:

©2004 Green Mountain at Fox Run, Ludlow, Vermont. Marsha J. Hudnall, MS, RD is director of communications and senior nutritionist. For over 32 years, Green Mountain at Fox Run has developed and refined a life-changing program of permanent weight loss through lifestyle change, exclusively for women (http://www.fitwoman.com.com/weightlossprogram.htm). To learn more about Green Mountain at Fox Run, visit us at: http://www.fitwoman.com

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