The average American gains a couple of pounds or more during
the Holiday Season. With the abundance of parties, cookies and traditions that
involve food, it’s no wonder. Unfortunately many Americans have trouble
shedding that weight in the upcoming year and instead just keep adding to that.
What did you weigh in your 20s? If that number has
increased, you see how it can sneak up on you.
The good news is that you can thoroughly enjoy the Holidays
without putting your health at risk. You have to be willing to make some
changes, but you definitely don’t have to starve.
If you are attending a function for work or at a hotel, the
tips below should help. If you are fairly certain that what is being served is
a large departure from how you need to eat, do consider eating a small meal
before you leave the house. It will handle any hunger and allow you to mingle
and enjoy everyone’s company without having to eat food you know will get you
in trouble.
When you are dining at a friend’s or family member’s home,
it is much easier to have some control. Some options are to bring a big healthy
salad and an entrée that you can eat. You’ll be contributing to the hostess
plus saving yourself from getting into trouble.
Consider bringing a carrot or cucumber of celery stick already
cut into pieces. How hard is it to throw that in a baggy before you leave the
house? And with it you have a way of enjoying the hummus or guacamole that’s
being served while avoiding the crackers. Add half an avocado to your goody bag
and you won’t be hungry.
Below we provide alternatives to the pound enhancing,
disease promoting Holiday fare so pervasive at this time of year.
Appetizers
Instead of This Try
This!
Cheese and
crackers Hummus
or guacamole dipped with veggies
Cereal mix with nuts Raw
or dry roasted nuts (fresh, not from a can)
Pigs in a blanket Chili
(try Amy’s Organic Chili, canned but great)
Cheesy dip, hot or cold Shrimp with cocktail sauce
Pot stickers Chicken
or veggie skewer – check the sauce
Entrees
Instead of This Try
This!
Baked macaroni and cheese Opt
for the plain chicken, or cold salmon
Prime rib – large slice Small
slice or try chicken or salmon
Chicken or turkey with stuffing The meat is fine, just avoid the stuffing
Vegetable casserole with cheese Try to find some plain veggies or salad
Desserts
Instead of This Try This!
Holiday cookies Organic
dark chocolate (bring some with you!)
Gooey cake Coconut
ice cream (Try Bliss brand, it’s delicious)
Fruit cake Fresh
fruit and nuts
Drinks
Instead of this Try
This!
Margaritas A
glass wine - Pinot Noir is highest in
antioxidants
Champagne One
small glass is fine, otherwise have wine
Egg nog Try
the “So” brand made from coconut milk
More than one drink Water!
Staying hydrated will help you lose weight
Remember to enjoy some long walks or outside activities that
keep you exercising.
And most importantly, truly enjoy the company of friends and
families.
Visit us at www.RootCauseMedicalClinic.com. If you have questions or need any help, I’m here for you! Call 408-733-0400.
Our best wishes to you and yours for a joyful Holiday Season!
Until next time, I wish you very good health.
Dr Vikki Petersen, DC, CCN, CFMP
IFM Certified Practitioner
Founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic
Co-author of “The Gluten Effect”
Author of the eBook: “Gluten Intolerance – What You Don’t Know May Be Killing You!”
