December 6 , 2002

Helpful holiday hints to stay healthy

The holiday season now is in full swing, and while this time of year brings images of pretty packages, family reunions and snowmen on the front lawn, the holiday season also can bring the anxiety of maintaining control over diet. But with a bit of preparation and a small dose of willpower, this wonderful time of the year can be enjoyed without guilt--or unwanted weight gain.

Below is a list of tips put together by Lillian Sonnenberg, DSc, RD, senior manager of the MGH Nutrition Center, to help people win the battle of the bulge during the holiday season.

Holiday parties

• Don't arrive too hungry. Eat some fruit or crackers prior to the party.
  
• Try to stay away from the food/buffet table while socializing. It is difficult to eat and talk at the same time, so circulating and engaging in conversation will decrease time spent at the buffet table.
  
• Watch alcohol intake. Alcohol consumption can stimulate overeating and add empty calories.

Holiday baking

• Substitute yogurt or applesauce for fatty ingredients in desserts.
  
• Offer guests lower-fat items like fruits, vegetables, low-fat dips and lean meats.

Holiday exercise

• Take a family walk after dinner.
  
• Wear walking shoes to the mall and increase the pace walking from store to store.
  
• Try standing at a table and doing knee bends while wrapping gifts.
  
• Try not to abandon regular exercise routines.

Holiday stress

• Plan early and try to avoid the things that are likely to cause stress, which can be a catalyst for overeating.

For more information about how to maintain diet and exercise during the holiday season, contact the MGH Nutrition Center at (617) 726-2520.