Even as registered dietitians and personal trainers, we’re not immune to the challenges that come with all of the food-related holiday events. But oh how we wish that were the case!  For us, the toughest part is the sweet treats that call our name.  At holiday parties there seem to be so many delicious foods that make overindulging difficult to prevent, so we go to them armed with all of our weapons to prevent the holidays from getting the best of our waistlines.  We’ve already shared some strategies on Facebook in a live Q & A (video below) but if, like us, sweets are what can get you into trouble, we suggest trying some of the tactics that we do.  And we… do A LOT! (otherwise, it would be a free for all! 😉 )

Here’s what we suggest:

• Keep a small portion of a dessert that you love waiting for you at home–and know that you can come home and have it guilt-free rather than another option you may regret in the morning. It’s much easier to turn down party desserts knowing that you’re heading home to indulge. We personally love frozen fudge popsicles. You can also try a few of the holiday favorites (below).

• If you want to eat dessert at the event, go with a plan, knowing how much you plan to eat.  This way, you’ll be less likely to have more and more simply because you’ll have set rules and limits.  If there is a large spread, think about it first and commit to eating only your favorite item.  Or if you must, stick to just one small piece of your very favorite two items.  This will help to set a limit.

• When you are at the event, MOVE away from the food. We know it sounds so trite, but it’s true, out of site, out of mind!  And remind yourself that you’re there to socialize, it’s more about the company than the dessert. It takes practice but keep saying that to yourself, it really helps! 🙂

• If you have to stand near the dessert, try facing your back to it or even drinking seltzer to take away the sweet from your taste buds.  Or simply try having a sugar-free mint or sugar-free gum to distract your taste buds.  Or, if you can, escape to brush your teeth.  Most people love the fresh minty mouth and don’t want to ruin the feeling!

Or bring this Pumpkin Spice Roll for dessert, so you can enjoy a dessert, guilt free!

Try these guilt-free treats:

Carob Peppermint Smoothie 125 Calories

Skinny Pumpkin Muffins with Pecan Frosting 82 Calories
Skinny ginger cookies  40 calories/ cookie

Skinny Speedy Banana Walnut Cookies 55 Calories

No Bake White Chocolate Granola Balls  74 Calories
Speedy Spiced Oatmeal Cookies  45 Calories

5-Minute Pumpkin Spice Cookie  38 Calories
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream  139 Calories
Chocolate Drizzled Granola Balls  59 Calories
Avocado Chocolate Mousse  85 Calories

And one last word of advice for during holiday time: Plan to maintain your weight. It’s usually not realistic to plan to lose weight during the holidays. So, instead, plan to maintain your current weight and then continue your weight loss plans come January 1st. If you plan to lose weight and don’t, it can be discouraging.

Do you have any other helpful tips you use to prevent overeating and weight gain during the holidays?