'Tis the season…holiday gatherings, cocktails galore, Christmas cookies, eggnog, and pecan pie…oh my. Too bad you can’t take back the extra pounds like you return the sweater from Aunt Mary.
Now, you might think I’m going to try and take away all of your fun, but I’m not that kind of girl. Holiday parties should be enjoyable, but starting the New Year feeling sluggish and carrying around ten extra pounds isn’t fun at all. So, I’d like to share some strategies with you so you can whoop it up (sort of) and not gain a pound. Deal?
Have you ever starved yourself the day of a party so you can eat and drink whatever you want later? It’s not a good plan, guys, because if you arrive at the party hungry you’re more than likely going to overeat and overdrink. Not to mention that alcohol on an empty stomach is probably not the best idea. It’s fun at the time, but not so much later.
A much better plan is to eat well the day of the event. Start the morning with a large glass of clean, filtered water with fresh squeezed lemon juice (1/2 to a whole lemon), one tablespoon apple cider vinegar and ¼ teaspoon of sea salt. The lemon juice helps flush toxins from the liver, the vinegar helps regulate blood sugar and breaks up mucus, and the sea salt contains trace minerals that keep you hydrated. I actually really like the taste and drink it most mornings. Drink it before you have anything else to eat or drink and continue drinking plenty of water during the day so you’re well-hydrated when you arrive. Alcohol is dehydrating and besides, you want your skin to look good in your party clothes, right?
Eat balanced, whole food meals during the day that contain protein, vegetables and good fat. Skip the chips, cereal, tortillas, and bread, and stick to protein like meat and eggs, and fats like coconut oil, olive oil, olives, and avocado. Don’t be afraid of the fat! It won’t make you fat and will keep you satiated. Be sure to include vegetables and have some fresh fruit if you’d like. Eating a snack that has protein and fat (maybe a little leftover chicken and avocado or unsweetened Greek yogurt with a few nuts and berries) an hour or so before the party is a good idea so you aren’t starved when you arrive.
Try having a glass of water between alcoholic beverages. Trust me on this one…you’ll feel much better in the morning. When you’re making your plate, you can indulge in food you love, but take smaller portions, and eat slowly, savoring every bite. You won’t feel deprived, and you won’t feel stuffed! It’s a win-win! The morning after the party, have another glass of water with lemon, vinegar, and sea salt. Your body will be happy. 🙂
Happy Holidays with love!
