7 Ways to Fat-Proof Your Holidays


By Colleen Moody

'Tis the season to eat, drink, and try not to gain any weight. The constant carousel of cocktail parties, gift swapping, and eggnog drinking can be a great time to catch up with friends and family, but it's hard not to stress over all those calories you're popping in your mouth. To help you beat your body blues this holiday season, we tapped our experts for tips to help you keep your cool through the New Year.

Related:Your Everyday Guide to Eat, Drink, and Still Shrink

1. Party Season Survival Tips

Cheesy dips, pigs in a blanket, bacon-wrapped scallops. We could go on for days torturing you with the most popular holiday finger foods. "Just remember that fried is basically synonymous with calories," warns Lisa Young, PhD, RD, professor of nutrition at NYU. In an appetizer crisis, steer clear of anything deep fried and crispy and instead choose something in a sauce that you can scrape off.

Related: The 10 Worst Holiday Party Foods to Eat



2. Cruise Over to the Crudites

If you're going to nibble before dinner, Young recommends finding the crudites -- raw veggies like celery sticks, bell pepper strips, and broccoli. Just don't overdo it on the dipping sauce. Keep it plain or use just a dollop.

Related: Bite Size Treats: Healthy Appetizer Recipes



3. Bust Out the LBD

A surefire way to avoid overeating? Whip out a sexy cocktail dress. "When you wear something slightly snug, you're more aware of what you're putting in your mouth," says Young.

Related:Styling Tips to Look Slimmer Instantly


4. The Clutch Trick

Try this holiday party strategy from Pasquella: "Always make sure you carry a clutch instead of a purse you can swing over your shoulder. That will only leave you with one free hand, meaning you have to eat slower and can only consume a few finger foods at a time."

Related: QUIZ: What's Your Portion IQ?



5. Take a Lap

Don't just hop in that buffet line and start piling on the goods, walk around first, Young recommends. "Stock your plate with fruits and veggies first, and then fill the rest in."

Related: Your Stress-Free Holiday Starts Here


6. Fake It

Warning: This next tip may surprise you. "Just because everyone else is drinking doesn't mean you have to!" says Nancy Redd, author of Body Drama. "Have a glass of champagne and then refill it with diet ginger ale. This is my go-to trick every holiday party season."

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