The average weight gain from Thanksgiving thru the New Year is 5lbs. (I wonder what the average increase in Hemoglobin A1c levels are!?) It is time to not be one of the statistics this year and head into 2010 not feeling guilty over poor eating choices over the Holiday’s. It is unrealistic to recommend avoiding the seasonal treats all together, but remember the key word moderation along with these tips:

Keep healthier snacks in places you know you will be tempted
    Low carbohydrate options include nuts. I suggest pre-portioned packages such as     100 calorie pack of almonds and walnuts. Pre-cut vegetables are another low     carbohydrate and low calorie snack. *see recipe below*

Do not skip a meal or go extra light during a meal
    Skipping meals does not work. It makes it that much more difficult to not     overindulge with between meal goodies and the next meal when you are too     hungry to make wise decisions! Try your best to stick with your meal plan of     consistent carbohydrates during the holidays.

Reduce your production line (don’t bake as much!)
    Yes, our families look forward to seasonal traditions. But do we really need to     make 12 different cookie recipes that linger around the house until February!

Remove mindset “I will start watching what I eat after the holidays.”
    The mind is powerful. Start today.  


Vegetable Dip

Ingredients:  8oz of plain greek yogurt + 1 packet of ranch seasoning dip (powder mix)

Directions: Mix above 2 ingredients (adding ranch seasoning to taste preference) to enjoy a low calorie, low fat, low carbohydrate and high protein dip excellent for vegetables or whole wheat crackers.