7 Tips to avoid hidden calories this Christmas.

1. Think before you drink. If you managed to read my last blog post you would have seen a few alternative options for low-calorie drinks. I would say this is the #1 culprit to hidden calories. We often drink more calories during the holidays than we realize. Eggnog, juice in cocktails, and cream-based drinks can really add up. Drink in moderation, and think about the content of your drink. Try lower-calorie drink options like sparkling water with a lemon or lime, and choose a glass of wine over a sugar-laced cocktail. Make sure you drink a glass of water between each alcoholic drink, this part is super important, you will thank yourself the next day.

2. Identify healthy alternatives to some of your holiday favorites. Try substituting sweet potatoes instead of mashed potatoes and gravy, pumpkin pie instead of pecan pie, and roasted turkey without the skin.

3. Watch your portions. Load your plate up with vegetables and greener the better plus lean turkey. Eat less of the high-calorie foods like casseroles, breads and desserts. A serving is typically the size of a deck of cards or your iPhone. Also, try putting your appetizers on a plate to see what you are eating rather than continually grazing by the table.

4. Select real, fresh foods. Cranberries are full of antioxidants, but the canned kind is packed with sugar and calories. Sweet potatoes have a lot of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium and fiber, and you can add flavor such as cinnamon or nutmeg. Desserts made of baked apples or poached pears can be lighter options than typical desserts with candied nuts and chocolate. And don’t forget the pumpkin! Pumpkin is a low-fat, low-calorie food with potassium, vitamin A and vitamin C. Yum!

5. Revamp your stuffing. Make a lower-carb stuffing by using more veggies like onions and celery or even dried fruits. Use less bread, and skip the sausage and butter. You can also add extra nutrients by choosing whole-grain breads.

6. Space out your helpings. Take smaller portions, and always remember that you can have more the next day. Holidays are about spending time with friends and family, so make a conscious effort to take a break between bites and enjoy the conversation. Love this one, as sometimes I feel we lose sight of why we are sharing the day together.

7. Move it! Start the holiday off by walking or running in a Turkey Trot race or simply meeting some family members for a bit of holiday exercise. Try getting your metabolism elevated for the day by taking a walk outside or playing a game of flag football a few hours after the holiday feast. You know I’ll be doing this, what better way to start the day!

Enjoy the holidays with smart choices and your body will thank you come January 1! Important date to remember January 7th the new ‘Virtual Gym’ will open!!

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