Happy Monday everyone! If you’re anything like the rest of the U.S., you will be subjected to more than one sometimes awkward, sometimes fun family and friend dinner gathering during the holidays. But, uh oh, you’re trying your hardest to stick to your new healthy outlook. What is one to do?
1. Drink a lot of water and have a high protein meal before you head over to the festivities. This will keep you from being too hungry to wait for the main meal. Remember appetizers are always optional!
2. Get in a quick workout so that you are feeling refreshed and still somewhat in your same routine. This helps handle craving from kicking up, and the feeling of not being in your normal routine cause you to eat more than you normally would.
3. Bring over your own healthy side dishes.
I actually wanted to focus on number four and offer you a few healthy side alternatives to bring with you. These are all great options that can help contribute to having a little healthier Christmas, and who knows…your family may enjoy them so much they’ll keep asking you to bring them back!
Mashed Cauliflower
Anyone watching carb content knows to avoid potatoes. Try this instead: boil and mash cauliflower instead of potatoes. Using this tasty recipe, nobody will miss those potatoes. Save the carb count for the rest of the meal.
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/230816/garlic-mashed-cauliflower/
Garlicky Green Beans
I know that the green bean casserole is a treasured addition to any holiday meal, but it’s chock full of calories and fat that you just don’t want right now. Try this recipe for garlicky green beans that incorporates those veggies in a new and delicious way.
http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/249339/garlicky-green-beans/
Crunchy Pear and Celery Salad
Instead of the traditional macaroni, green or potato salad – hey, I don’t know what your main dish will be – try this non-traditional pear and celery salad. Pears taste amazing this time of year, and will make for an amazing sweet treat for your tastebuds.
http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/249276/crunchy-pear-celery-salad/
