109:365

With the holiday season in full swing, it's common to cram your schedule full with holiday parties to the max, and fill your stomachs to the max while you're at it. Though this can be all too satisfying in the moment, be sure to pump the brakes, so that your body will thank you later. (I can't believe I just said that since I'm usually the one stuffing my face!!)

According to a dietician in Salem, Oregon, Elizabeth Somer, here are some tricks to saving calories this holiday season.

1. Be Choosy. Only eat the foods that are most symbolic of the holiday season. (a.k.a. you won't really  have access to them until next Christmas!You know exactly which goodies I'm talking about).

2. Don't skip meals. Just because you're planning on attending a party, that doesn't mean you shouldn't eat breakfast! Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And lunch is just important too!

3. Sample, don't gorge. Just because it's there, doesn't mean you have to eat every last bite. Take small samples from many different things so your taste buds can have a hay day!

4. Be polite, not nice. Just because someone is offering it, doesn't mean you have to take it. Mentally prepare ahead of time to graciously say no thank you, avoiding all of your loved ones' coaxing.

5. Just say "no" to alcohol. It's easy to pack on the calories with just one drink, and just one drink can break down your defense of saying no to food. Late night munchies are the worst - or the best; depends how you look at it...  If you're planning on drinking, either dilute your beverage (make the hard drinks lower octane), or make sure to have one or two non-alcoholic beverages in between. This helps you to pace yourself and saves calories, unless we're talkin' eggnog. No calorie saving with eggnog.

6. Loosen up. Sometimes people are so worried about avoiding food and beverages that their fun is ruined. If you're not drinking, bring a bottle of water to sip on throughout the night. Or if you're on calorie overload from party number one, throw in a piece of gum to help you avoid digging in for round two.

7. Never arrive hungry. Always plan on eating a normal meal prior to arrival, or at least snack on something healthy before you jet out the door. That way you won't run off with the muddy buddies. Ok, let's be honest, you're still going to run off with a death grip on the muddy buddies bowl, but at least maybe you'll get full before you get to the bottom of it.

8. Think whole food. Load up your plate with lots of veggies and fruits. That way you will get full from low calorie grub.

9. Mama says, "take your vitamins!" For brain power, make sure to take your omega 3's, and take a daily multi-vitamin to keep your energy high for this go-go-go time of year!

If you attempt these steps above, you should be golden to NOT pack the pounds this holiday season! Good luck!

Cheers and be safe.

Jennica