Here is a list of “naughty” versus “nice” choices:
Appetizers
Instead of the puffed pastry's and anything (and everything) wrapped in bacon or fried, go for the shrimp cocktail! At a fraction of the calories, you are at the top of the nice list, now!
Entrées
Absolutely! Have your fish, poultry, or beef! Just remember to stick to lean cuts and keep the portion to the size of a deck of cards (or the palm of you hand). Avoid any sauces if you can! Those are packed with excess calories, fats, and sodium.
Side Dishes
When you see that bread-and-butter... About face! Direct yourself straight to the salad bar – quicker than Santa sliding down that chimney! Think light dressing (only about a table spoon or so) or even better … lemon juice with a smidgen of salt and pepper.
Mashed potatoes and gravy? Naughty.
Cauliflower Mashed? Much Better.
Steamed broccoli? Very nice! (And have as much of this as you want!)
When it comes to alcohol:
It’s best to stay away from the eggnog, but If it's something you absolutely cannot resist, then consider having that for your dessert (maximum of 6-8 oz.)
A 6 ounce glass of red wine or white wine, one cocktail, preferably mixed with soda or water, or even one beer, is on the nicer side. BUT… Stay away from the spiked holiday punch and mixed cocktails as they contain tons of sugar and add extra calories putting you back on the naughty list for sure.
Desserts
Have one or even two! Again, it's about the portion. Pie? Pecan is very naughty. But, if you slice your piece 1-1 ½ inches at the crust, you will be okay. If you think of your desert size as 1/3 – ½ the size of that deck of cards, (approximately 3 table spoons) you are now back in the nice zone again.
Remember this in a pinch, ¼ plate of protein, ¼ plate of non-starch veggies, and the rest can be leafy greens.
You will feel great by retaining control and enjoying your holiday favorites at the same time. You will be singing “Hallelujah” when you look down at the scale on New Years Day!
I sincerely wish you all the joy and blessings that this holiday season can bring you, but mostly peace, hope, and love.
Michelle Kennedy
Staying Trim During The Holidays
Written By: Michelle Kennedy
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Bay Life Living Magazine Nov/Dec 2015/Jan 2016
Christmas and New Year