Best Strategies for Navigating Holiday Parties

This handout from the Holiday Challenge is too good not to share. Take a look at these holiday party tips, and if you like what you see, feel free to share this information with your clients. Who knows what a difference it might make at this time of year?Holiday parties are awesome. Here’s how to have fun without missing your health goals.Fill up on one or two foods that are healthful— veggies, fresh fruits, lean protein etc. That way you can add small portions of one or two of your very favorite holiday treats without feeling utterly deprived.Go for a dip! Try fresh vegetables with low-fat dip. Nonfat Greek yogurt makes an excellent savory base.When facing or preparing a meat and cheese platter, choose low-fat cheese, lean protein, and whole wheat bread or crackers.Get out on the dance floor and shake things up. You’ll have tons of fun and burn calories at the same time.Holiday Foods to Skip (or Moderate):Moderation is the key here. These foods are calorie-dense and low in nutrients. Pick one or two favorites and skip the rest.

• Holiday cakes like fruit cake, spice cake, or good old chocolate cake.
• Holiday cookies. Frosted cookies are especially high in calories.
• Decadent drinks like cocoa or eggnog.
• Massive cheese plates.
• Holiday pies like pumpkin pie and pecan pie.
• Holiday candies. Caramels, toffee, and candy canes deck tons of holiday tables every year.
• Other very rich desserts.

Here's the handout! There's still time for holiday health education! Check out these materials...