The holidays are rapidly approaching and with them come the temptations of rich dishes and calorie-laden desserts. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to keep the flavor and cut the fat in your holiday celebrations. Here are a few ways that you can enjoy the feasts of the season without destroying your diet.
Make small changes to your baking methods
Baked goods are probably the biggest temptation around the holidays. Whether your downfall happens to be cookies or pumpkin pie, there are ways to cut the calories and fat from your favorite dishes without losing the flavor. Applesauce can be used as a substitute for oil in recipes like brownies and muffins. Not only does the applesauce cut the fat but it also helps to keep your baked goods moist. Artificial sweeteners can be added to desserts in place of sugar and whole wheat flour can replace part of or all of the white flour. Also try adding oatmeal or nuts to your desserts to add a healthy serving of fiber.
Serve healthy h’orderves
Cocktail parties are a huge part of the holidays but they can really wreak havoc on a diet. Whether you are playing host or attending an office party try to provide healthy snacking options. Instead of heavy, cream-based dips and greasy chips, serve up a platter of fresh veggies with salsa or hummus. Low fat cheeses and whole wheat crackers are just as satisfying with a glass of wine but are much healthier than their full fall counter parts and low-fat bean dips are a tasty way to add fiber to a pre-meal snack.
Don’t skip your workouts
With so much going on during the holidays it can be hard to stick to your regular routine but keeping active is a great way to occasionally indulge without gaining weight. If you don’t have time to hit the gym for an hour at a time try going for several short brisk walks or taking a few extra flights of stairs. Little bits of exercise throughout the day can add up to a decent workout.
Yummy and healthy.. I’m on board!