Holiday weight gain is bound to happen what with the numerous parties that you will be attending throughout the month. Although some sees this as a chance to enjoy some heavy meals, the extra pounds that you will be carrying afterwards may make you regret your holiday indulgence. But how can you say no to all the yummy dishes that are served in these parties? Regardless of whether you are the host for the evening or you are bringing a dish to a party, try these holiday food swaps to help you maintain your weight and overall health this holiday season.
Go for pumpkin pie
Pumpkin pie is a good option when it comes to dessert because it is packed with nutritional value such as beta carotene which is good for your eyes, plus there is less sugar content in it too. Also, pumpkin pie can help protect you against cancers and heart disease as well. If pumpkin pie is not available, limit your dessert to just one slice.
Choose your sides wisely
If you think that green vegetable casserole is a healthy side dish, you might want to think again. The ingredients used to make the casserole may be heavily laden with calories that can do more harm than good. If you really want to keep your weight down, be wise with your choice of side dishes. Grilled asparagus is considerably better, especially when it is cooked with olive oil, because it is packed with vitamins and minerals without the added fat and calories.
Skip the eggnog
Eggnogs may be a staple in many holiday tables, but they are not really good for your weight. A cup of eggnog packs up to 350 calories which many of us are not really aware of. Although it is non-alcoholic, eggnog still packs a powerful punch in terms of calories. As a matter of fact, drinking champagne is much better since it has less calorie content.
Have some cinnamon tea
Most of us see the holidays as a way of indulging our sweet tooth, but this isn’t going to do your weight any favors. If you find yourself feeling lethargic because of too much sweet, hello sugar crash, why not prepare yourself some cinnamon tea? Drinking cinnamon tea can help reduce your blood sugar levels to more normal levels.
Choose avocados for creaminess
It is understandable that you would want to add a level of creaminess to your meals, but since heavy cream is packed with calories, a healthier alternative would be avocados. Use this in your chocolate pudding and you will still get the same creaminess without the added calories.
Opt for pumpkin spiced latte
Christmas shopping can be tough, and when you need a breather, you’ll probably find a way to a coffee shop. As much as their holiday flavor sounds tempting, think of the number of calories that you will be gulping down. Although most offerings of coffee shops are high in calorie content, going for something simple such as pumpkin spiced latte made with skim milk, without whipped cream is considerably better, as there is less calories in it.
Build your healthy food
It is understandable that it’s going to be hard to stick to a healthy diet during the holidays, but it is possible if you start preparing early. If you find a healthy snack that can satisfy your sweet tooth, then do so. Building up your tolerance can make you want to have more of it rather than the sugar laden ones.
