Just because Santa is content with his cookies-and-milk induced holiday waistline doesn’t mean that you have to be, too.
1. Never arrive hungry
Come hungry to a dinner party and you’re almost guaranteed to end up eating something made without regard to your waistline.
2. Wear form-fitting clothes
You’ll be more incentivized to make healthy choices in that little black dress than those elastic-waistband sweats. Plus, you’ll look better, anyways – it’s a win-win.
3. Make socializing, rather than snacking, the focus of the occasion.
It’s easy to stick around the snack table when you’re feeling awkward, but this can be detrimental to both your diet and social life. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation – you might even find yourself struggling to fit in bites of food between conversations!
4. Keep your portions in check
As much fun as it would be to pile your plate a mile high with Aunt Nancy’s famous eggplant Parmesan and Grandma Carol’s award-winning pasta salad, it’s best to refrain. The heavier the plate, the more abundant the calories.
5. Watch how many times you fill your drink glass
Not only does alcohol inhibit your ability to make healthy choices, it contributes to calorie consumption itself. Plan how much you’re going to drink ahead of time, and make sure to factor it into your calorie budget.
6. Don’t stand near the buffet table
In fact, keep your back to it! Avoid temptation as much as possible. If you really need to go near the buffet, try staying in the general vicinity of the veggie platter – it’s the least corrupted of the appetizers.
7. Make it a goal to meet someone new
You’ll be so focused on trying to make conversation that you won’t have time to make a pilgrimage to the chip bowl.
8. Wear a special piece of jewelry — a sparkly bangle or big ring — as a visible reminder to yourself to eat in moderation
It’s less obvious than writing it on your hand, plus it’s a nice excuse to accessorize. Who knows, maybe your statement piece will incite a discussion with someone new.
9. Practice saying “no, thank you”
It’s okay to turn down invitations or tell a pushy host you don’t want seconds. Your health should always come first, we’re sure the host will understand.
10. If you must cheat, spend your calories on something you think is worth it.There’s nothing worse than eater’s remorse. Make sure your indulgence won’t be served á lá regret by planning your meals ahead of time.