Skip to content

How to avoid calorie disasters at holiday gatherings

Ah, holiday parties: Tables decked with piles of rum balls, eggnog flowing like syrup on pancakes, dietary caution being tossed to the wind. To avoid kicking yourself for overindulging, follow these tips from the Cooper Clinic’s Nutrition Services team.

Ah, holiday parties: Tables decked with piles of rum balls, eggnog flowing like syrup on pancakes, dietary caution being tossed to the wind. To avoid kicking yourself for overindulging, follow these tips from the Cooper Clinic’s Nutrition Services team.

Steer clear of the kitchen and buffet line.

Mingle in a different area, preferably with your back to the goodies.

Practice moderation.

Sometimes just a bite is enough to satisfy your craving.

Pick fresh over doctored up.

Choose basic vegetables instead of green bean casserole and corn pudding (which have decidedly more ingredients than green beans and corn).

Don’t skip meals.

It might sound smart to save your calories for later. It’s not. You’ll arrive at the party starving and probably overeat.

Beware the bar.

Festive eggnog is calorie-laden. Stick with a 5-ounce glass of wine and sip slowly. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or diet soda.