Eating Strategies for Holiday Parties.....

1.     Eat a small meal before you go.  Make sure to have some protein.  This will help you feel satisfied and thus be less likely to make poor food choices at the party.  Also will help with slowing rate of alcohol absorption. If you start drinking on an empty stomach, you are very likely to overeat and make poor choices.  
 
2.     Pick a small plate and choose a few items to eat.  Remember that each small appetizer is about 60 calories, thus 5 bites is about 300 calories.  Once that plate is empty, you're done.  Resist the temptation to go back and forth to the food.  Avoid sugary treats, as the combo with alcohol will wreak havoc on your blood sugars and trigger the brain to want more.
 
3.     Make it a point to drink a few glasses of water at the party.  Not only does it prevent the dehydrating effects of alcohol, it will help you to consume less. 
 
4.     If you are concerned about what food choices there will be available, then bring a healthy appetizer to the party so that you're covered. 
 
5.     Try to chat away from the food and drink table.  If you are within arms' reach, you are more likely to continue eating just because it is there.  When you are chatting you are less likely to concentrate on each thing you put into your mouth.  This comes back to the practice of being mindful and present to your food, yourself, and your friends/loved ones.
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