The holidays can feel like a food frenzy. Between family gatherings, office parties and celebrating with friends, you're likely to eat, overeat and then indulge a little more. Studies show we tend to put on a few pounds this time of year, and that the extra weight is likely to stick. One way to still enjoy holiday fare without derailing your diet is to manage your portions. Here are some tips to help you enjoy holiday fare without derailing your diet:
Switch to small plates. Not only do smaller dishes fill up faster, but the same size helping looks like more food when it's on a small dish — so you'll be likely to serve yourself less, whether you're making your way down a buffet line or eating at home. But no matter the size of your plate, It's most important to remember to keep it balanced: half for vegetables, a quarter for grains and a quarter for lean meat or protein.
Measure out snacks. Your favorite holiday movie is on. Before you snuggle into the couch with bag of microwave popcorn, take a minute to check the nutrition label and measure out a serving to keep calories in check. With one popular brand of buttered microwave popcorn, for example, one serving is about 4 cups popped, with 170 calories. But the bag contains 2.5 servings. Munch through the whole thing on your own, and you'll have eaten 425 calories.
Split an entree. Many restaurants serve way more food than one person needs in a single meal. Share a main dish with a friend, or pack half your entree to go as soon as it's served. Or choose a small-size option, if available.
Stop eating when you feel satisfied. You don't have to feel completely stuffed, or compelled to clean your plate, before putting down your fork. Eat slowly and pay attention to feelings of hunger. When you're satisfied, save the rest for leftovers.
