So many of us worry about gaining weight during the holidays, those dreaded holiday pounds can really sneak up on you if you’re not careful. Here are some tips for cutting down the calories and forgetting about the extra pounds this holiday season:

 

 

 

Tip #1: Get another taste tester. If you're doing the cooking this year, stay out of the pot! If you need a food taster, ask somebody else to do it for you.

 

Tip #2: Don’t nibble all day. It’s irresistible to stay away from all the food and sweets when it’s sitting on the counter. This is where even the most faithful dieters throw in the towel. They nibble here and there all day, then eat a full meal. Try not to nibble, have a glass of water or a piece of fruit instead. Cut an assortment of veggie sticks and keep them close at hand. Often we nibble on food out of habit, not because we’re really hungry.

 

Tip #3: Stop after the first plate. Don’t go back for seconds. I know it’s hard. Aunt Suzie’s homemade sourdough bread is probably calling your name. But don’t go back for more! Eat your dinner and stop there. After about 30 minutes or so you’ll brain will have had enough time to register you’re actually full and you will no longer feel like seconds.

 

Tip #4: Drink water. It is a fact that if you drink a glass of water at least 30 minutes prior to your meal you won’t be as hungry as you normally would be. Try to drink as much water as you can throughout the entire day and you won’t be as hungry.

 

Tip #5: Use a smaller plate. You are going to fill up your plate, no doubt about it. So use a smaller plate. Instead of using the big plates, grab a smaller plate to eat off of. You won’t be able to fit as much on it. Less food on your plate means less calories you’re taking in!