Here are some of our favorite tips for keeping your diet in check this holiday season shared to us by Coca-Cola and registered dietician Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator Melissa Herman Dirks (@EatSmartRDN).
It’s the time of year when office parties, family holiday celebrations and get-togethers are filling up your calendar:
- Avoid Calorie Overload. Have something to eat/drink at home before going to the party. Try eating a light meal like a salad with lean protein, yogurt, or an apple with peanut butter. At the party, limit the amount of fried foods and high fat appetizers, like full fat cheeses and dips, you eat.
- Don’t Starve Yourself! Starving all day before a big party is not only unhealthy, it’s counterproductive! Food is fuel, and during the busy holiday season, you want to keep your energy level high. Eat three moderate, balanced meals and stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Master the Buffet Table. Enjoy a wide array of foods by practicing portion control. First, use a salad size dish instead of a dinner plate. Then look at what the buffet has to offer and plan a strategy – take smaller servings of your favorite selections and limit high fat foods (e.g., dips and salads with mayonnaise, fried foods, and foods covered in cheese or cream).
- Hydrate Healthfully. The holidays are a perfect time to celebrate! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or attending one, there are ways to enjoy great-tasting beverages without all the calories.Try Coca?Cola Mini cans – at just 7.5 ounces and 90 calories per serving, they’re a great option for people who are watching their calories.
- Don’t Diss Dessert. Who can resist dessert? Great news… you don’t have to! Split a dessert with a spouse or friend to save on calories and still enjoy taste. It’s all about moderation.
- Feel the Burn. Sneak in some exercise before, during or after the holiday party by taking a walk with your family or friends. Planning for a white Christmas? Make a snowman or have a snow ball fight!
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Melissa Herrmann Dierks, R.D.N., L.D.N., C.D.E., is a Charlotte-based registered dietitian nutritionist, certified diabetes educator, and licensed nutritionist with more than 20 years of experience in the field of nutrition and dietetics. She provides nutrition services and counsel to several organizations including The Coca-Cola Company.
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DISCLOSURE: NO CONNECTION, UNPAID, MY OWN OPINIONS
I have not received any compensation for writing this content and I have no material connection to the brands, topics and/or products that are mentioned herein. However, individual links could be associated with affiliate marketing sites and through the use of affiliate links contained herein, I may collect fees from purchases made.
