ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, December 12, 1996 TAG: 9612120027
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-2 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
COLUMN: THE HOME FRONT
SOURCE: SARAH BURKETT
The holiday season is a festive time of year filled with tradition and celebration. Holiday planning can help health-conscious individuals enjoy the season while maintaining their weight.
Holidays commonly feature family gatherings, office parties, football bowl parties and eating out. These events may offer a variety of foods that are high in sugar, sodium, fat and calories. By making healthful food choices, you will enrich your holiday by maintaining your nutritional goals. Here are a few holiday tips:
* Eat a well-balanced diet during the day.
* Don't skip meals. You will only overindulge later.
* Choose the smallest plate possible for your food.
* Sit or stand away from the party food table.
* Eat a low-fat snack before you go to the party.
* Fill your plate with fresh fruits and raw vegetables, leaving little room for high calorie foods.
* Choose only the high calorie foods you really want and in small amounts.
* Chew sugar-free gum or mints instead of food.
* Limit nuts, chips, dip and alcohol.
* Eat slowly. Put your fork down between bites.
* Drink plenty of water or low-calorie drinks.
* Serve low-fat healthful snacks. Your friends will welcome the idea.
* Choose low-fat finger foods, such as an array of fresh fruits and raw vegetables.
* Prepare dips with low-fat yogurt instead of sour cream.
* Serve unsalted pretzels or plain air-popped popcorn sprinkled with herbs.
* Make a low-calorie punch of carbonated water, juice and fresh fruit juices.
* Order only tomato-based soups, consomme or broths.
* Select seafood, chicken or turkey (without the skin), lean red meats or veal.
* Request vegetables to be steamed and prepared without fat.
* Serve sauces and dressings on the side.
* Choose fresh fruit for dessert. If you desire a sweet treat, ask for two forks and share with a friend or only eat half.
Sarah D. Burkett, is with Virginia Cooperative Extension.
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