Holiday parties increasing your belt pressure? Try a few tricks to get through the holidays without adding pounds.
Eat most of your fruits, veggies, and whole grains earlier in the day. They may be hard to find at a party. Save your extra calories for the party.
Make one pass at the food table with a small plate and then move away and socialize.
Water your drinks...if you choose to drink alcohol, substitute sparkling water and lime for a second drink or try a wine spritzer (wine mixed with sparkling water or club soda) to dilute the alcohol calories.
And know your limits...if you choose to drink alcohol - one alcoholic drink a day for women and up to two for men. Avoid alcohol completely if pregnant (or planning to become so), lactating, under 21, taking medications that can interact with alcohol, or if you are driving.
A healthier lifestyle is easier than you might think. This is one in a series of monthly webpage features to show you how to take advantage of the great information put together by your USDA colleagues.
