We’re Havin’ A Party!
Well, here they come again. The holidays are back.
Thanksgiving is but a week away and then Christmas, and New Years. Time to celebrate, time to pause and think about our good fortune, and time to avoid gaining that unnecessary weight many of us put on in these upcoming months. It is a fact that men and women will gain one to five pounds during the holiday period. Believe it or not, many will keep that extra weight on and not lose it. Just think, in 20 years you can put on 20-40 pounds of extra body weight during these three holiday events. Holy cannoli! So, what’s a guy or gal to do? Well, I have some helpful hints for these tough times. Don’t sabotage your waistline, try these on for size.
Throwing a party? Shop for healthful items, fresh as you can get veggies, fruits, healthful proteins, trimmed meats (low fat and low salt), and snacks that are whole grain, low fat, low salt and low calorie. Spare your party goers high fat foods like cream, butter, cheese, and high fat nuts (no chocolate coverings). Chips, too!
Do yourself a favor. Serve your guests tonic water, wine, flavored seltzer, and flavored water. Hard liquor is loaded with calories. Vodka, Southern Comfort, whisky, and gin are very high in calories. Add creams or other mixes to them and that drink can top 500 calories. Bottled waters are a hit so go with those. Eggnog is an artery clogger, a no-no.
Roast a turkey—a big one—and/or a ham. These are always a hit at any party, and high in protein. Watch out for the salt content in the ham. They now sell low salt hams that are truly delicious. If you can afford it, shrimp is great grilled, or steamed and served cold. A low calorie cocktail sauce is very popular.
Sometimes you will run into a guest or two who have special needs due to a specific diet or food allergies. Find this out before they get to your party. They will surely appreciate it.
I am allergic to Sorbitol and Zylotol. These are artificial sweeteners put in cakes, candies, diet drinks, and even surimi—which is that pink and white fish that is sold as “mock lobster.” This stuff can destroy your digestive system. Several years ago, I didn’t know I was eating Sorbitol-laced food, and I was in the bathroom for three days. That’s how bad these artificial sweeteners can be. The desserts were tasty, but deadly for my digestive system.
So, you’ve decided to serve a dessert or two. Pumpkin pies are great, fresh fruit or even frozen fruits are good, sugar cookies are okay. The heavier cookies should be avoided—heavily decorated with jimmies, nuts, chocolate, and butter, butter, butter. You really can throw a successful bash if you use your noodle. Consider your guests needs and favorites. Keep it healthy and light. The upcoming holidays are marked with many traditions, but remember to have a good time and observe the real meaning—spending memorable times with family and friends. When the holiday season is over in January, hit the gym a little harder. It’s only four more months until beach time.
Rick Moore is a personal trainer certified by the American Fitness Professionals & Associates.