Trimming Holiday Calories

The holidays often mean festive parties, lots of food… and a few extra pounds. Avoid the holiday bulge this year by trimming calories with the following tips.

Limit high-fat party foods like cheeses, nuts, chocolate and dips made with cream cheese, mayonnaise or sour cream. Have smaller portions of these foods or use lower-fat alternatives.

Add these foods to your holiday menu: fruits and vegetables, breads, pretzels, low-fat crackers, bean dips, salsa, lean meats and steamed or broiled seafood.

Indulge without the fat and calories. Try steamed shrimp, caviar, lean roast beef, exotic fruits and flavored coffees as special holiday treats.

Calories from alcohol add up quickly. Try a spritzer instead – half wine and half club soda. Or alternate alcoholic beverages with non-caloric drinks such as water, diet soda, seltzer or club soda with a twist of lemon, lime or orange.