TUESDAY, Dec. 25 (HealthDay News) -- It's all too easy to
overindulge in food and drink at holiday parties, but there are
things you can do to make sure you don't stray too far off the path
of good health, an expert says.
"In a party atmosphere, we often throw the rule book out the window and treat ourselves more than usual," Lori Rosenthal, a dietitian at the Montefiore Medical Center in New York City, said in a center news release. "Even the most disciplined can let their guard down, filling up on food and drink and doing things that we later wish we hadn't."
She offered some tips for holiday party-goers.
Eating a healthy snack before you leave home will help limit how
much high-calorie holiday food you eat at a party. Drinking water
or other nonalcoholic beverages beforehand can also reduce your
desire to eat and drink a lot at a party, Rosenthal said.
Check out the food options at a party before you dig in, and
choose wisely. Use a smaller plate in order to keep you portion
sizes down. Standing away from the food table will reduce your
snacking.
Having a glass of water between each alcoholic drink will help
limit the alcohol's effect. Sip cocktails slowly. Keep track of how
many drinks you have, or ask a friend to help you monitor your
alcohol intake, Rosenthal suggested.
Drinking water the morning after a party can help a headache and
also counteracts the high salt levels in party foods. Foods rich in
omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish or walnuts, have
anti-inflammatory properties, and potassium-rich fruits and
vegetables, such as bananas, kiwis and mangos, help replenish
electrolytes.
If you decide to have a drink with electrolytes, choose a
sugar-free one in order to avoid excess calories.
"Holiday festivities are all about having fun, but we also should make good decisions about our health," Rosenthal said. "Everyone should include taking good care of their health as a 2013 New Year's resolution. Following these tips should help get you on the right track."
More information
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers
holiday
health and safety tips.