12/12/01 Be realistic and enjoy holiday meals:

Be realistic and enjoy holiday meals:

American Dietetic Association says it can be done

December 12, 2001

Media contact: Bridget McManamon, Lori Ferme or Tom Ryan
800/877-1600, ext. 4769, 4802, or 4894

CHICAGO -- The holidays are here, and with them come enough cookies, candy and beverages to last a lifetime. But don't go running from the buffet table just yet, advises the American Dietetic Association.

"This is the time of year to celebrate, and food is one of the pleasures of parties, holiday festivities and other social gatherings. But just because you're trying to eat healthfully you don't need to avoid celebrations or accept a few extra 'party' pounds," says Tammy Baker, a Phoenix, Ariz., registered dietitian and ADA spokesperson.

"All foods -- even traditional holiday treats -- can fit into a healthful eating plan for the calorie conscious. The secret is moderation and balance," says Baker.

"The most important thing about holiday eating is to forget the all-or-nothing mindset," Baker says. "Depriving yourself of special holiday foods, or feeling guilty when you do enjoy them, isn't part of a healthy eating strategy, and it's certainly not part of the holiday spirit!"

Baker offers suggestions for a happy and healthy holiday season:

  • Be realistic. Don't try to lose weight during the holidays. Instead, strive to maintain your weight by balancing party eating with other meals. "Eat small lower-calorie meals during the day so you can enjoy celebration foods without overdoing your calorie intake for the day," Baker says.
  • Take the edge off your hunger before a party. Eat a small, low-fat snack, such as fruit or a bagel, before you head out the door. This will help you avoid rushing to the buffet table when you arrive.
  • Meet and greet. "Conversation is calorie-free," says Baker. "Get a beverage and settle into the festivities before eating. Try sparkling water and a lime twist rather than alcohol."
  • Choose lower-calorie party foods. Have some raw vegetables with a small amount of dip. "To help ensure there will be healthful treats, bring a dish to the party filled with raw vegetables with a yogurt or cottage cheese dip, or bring a platter of fresh fruit," says Baker.

With nearly 70,000 members, the Chicago-based American Dietetic Association is the nation's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. ADA serves the public by promoting nutrition, health and well-being.

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