Holiday festivities can slow down your digestive system. If all those deliciously rich goodies are too tempting to pass up, there are ways to minimize that post-party bloat. And by filling your plate with the healthiest party foods, your LBD (little black dress) may still cling to all the right places.
Here are some snacks and desserts that you and your friends will want to make annual holiday traditions. You won’t actually be cheating on your diet. It will just feel like you are!
What to eat before you leave home
Don’t arrive at the party famished. If you do, you’ll want to head straight to the buffet. Treat yourself to a pre-party snack. Some fun, seasonal ideas:
- Celery stalks stuffed with almond butter
- A handful of unsalted walnuts and pecans mixed with dried cranberries or cherries
- Brightly colored baby carrots dipped in hummus
Pair your snack with a glass of chilled water. Blend in Regular Girl to help keep your system in a healthy balance. Now you’re ready to have a great time.
Fill your plate at the party with these goodies
First, you’ll probably want to spend time mingling and catching up with friends. Since you already had a snack and high-fiber Regular Girl, you won’t feel like you’re starving. When you do finally wander over to the buffet, choose from some of these party staples:
- Veggie trays. Dip your choice of veggies on salsa and/or guacamole. Both are super healthy.
- Olives and lightly salted nuts. These finger foods are loaded with better-for-fats that support your heart and brain health.
- Carved turkey or ham. What the heck, have a little of each! They’re filled with protein.
- Bruschetta. Load up on antioxidants. These small slices of Italian bread, topped with a colorful mixture of tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and basil, are filled with lycopene.
- Shrimp cocktail. Shrimp are light on calories and fat, and give you immune-boosting zinc.
- Fresh fruit. Go for it! It’s sweet. It’s high fiber. And it’s loaded with water. Pears and pomegranates are especially tasty this time of year.
- Desserts. Of course, you want to satisfy your sweet tooth! By going lighter on the appetizers, you can afford a few extra calories. Split the most tempting dessert on the table with a friend.