Add Water Rich Foods to Your Holiday Buffet

Rather than give in to every food that crosses your path during the winter holiday season, keep reminding yourself that you will have plenty of opportunities to eat seasonal foods. If you honor your true feelings of fullness, you won't get in trouble eating a certain food when you're truly in the mood. Experts say that if you pick the stuff you really want to eat and have it in moderation during the winter holidays, you will avoid food cravings that can get you in trouble later on. Nonetheless, remember to also use your willpower to keep your portion size in check. After all, one day of overeating should be relatively easy to overcome. Unfortunately, most people experience about six weeks of overindulgence and between one to five pounds of weight gain.

• CONSUME MORE WATER-RICH FOODS - Whether you making finger foods or a full meal, don't forget to prepare fruits and vegetables in ways that highlight natural flavors by adding healthy seasonal herbs and spices. Water-rich foods will keep you feeling full and well hydrated during this stressful time of year. If the party you attend has finger foods, opt for water-rich fruits and veggie hors d'oeuvres like watermelon, celery or cucumbers.
• PORTION FOOD SIZES - It doesn't help the same if you are reducing your carbs and increasing your protein intake if you are overeating at the same time. You don't have to count calories to lose weight but you will benefit from managing portion sizes for your intake of macronutrients, such as carbs, protein and fats.
• CONCENTRATE ON YOUR MEAL - There is no holiday rule that says you must eat everywhere you go. However, when you eat, eat mindfully by savoring every bite. Beware of eating distracted. If need be, put your fork down between bites and bits-and-pieces of conversation, so you can concentrate on your meal.
• HOLIDAY EXERCISE - Experts say that just ten minutes of cardio exercise added to your daily routine can counter the ill effects of the winter holiday season. You can even split up the ten minutes by fitting in some jumping jacks or running in place. It will help your body burn those calorie dense foods.
• WATCH OUT FOR LIQUID CALORIES - Anytime you're trying to manage your weight, it is best to limit your intake of high-calorie beverages. From sugary sodas to alcoholic beverages, these drinks can contribute a significant amount of empty calories, which can lead to weight gain. Moreover, alcohol and sugar-crashes can increase appetite.
• DRINK MORE WATER - During the holiday season, always try to drink a glass of water before you eat. In fact, it is smart to add water to any alcoholic drink you enjoy, or at least drink a glass between rounds. Alcohol can produce a nasty post-party headache if you allow your body to become dehydrated.

Many people make a big mistake during the holidays by skipping meals, since they know they're going to be eating a huge meal later on. Fact is a healthy breakfast gets your metabolism going and a smart snack at lunch will make it easier to avoid overeating at a holiday event. Controlling the chance of being tempting by holiday foods is one way to effectively reduce your intake. Although you can't control every situation, focus on all the times, places and ways you can. Planning can help you avoid many temptations. When creating your holiday eating plan, remember to avoid liquid calories from sugary, creamy and alcoholic drinks. Mixing wine with sparkling water can keep you well hydrated and cuts the calories in half for every holiday toast.

Personalized menu plans from Metabolic Research Center offer a variety of wholesome food choices and our online cookbook instructs you how to incorporate real food into delicious recipes for the winter holidays as well as any other time of the year.