Keep your eye on the prize
Keep your eye on the prize: a slimmer you. If you're on a weight loss programme, you need to create that deficit of 3,500 calories per week. Mindful snacking is the way to weigh less. Mindless snacking will prevent the weight loss you're working so hard to accomplish.
Drink with caution. Alcohol accomplishes two negatives: extra calories without nutrition, and a relaxing of inhibitions. No doubt some will view that as a positive. However, you need all your willpower to resist the cheese dips and sausage rolls, so staying sober is a good strategy.
Host your own party, and make it healthy. Cocktail parties are so easy to make healthy. I'm amazed when I go to a party and only find fried foods and fatty cheeses, crisps and nuts. There are great alternatives.
Chicken is a party favourite. Grilled chicken on skewers, and tiny chicken drumsticks, with a low-fat dipping sauce. Offer crudités with yogurt dip, hummus, baked pitta and veg sticks - a lower calorie alternative to crisps and sour cream dips.
Hey, but it's a party. So, enjoy a couple of beers or a couple of wine spritzers, but stay clear of alco-pops and liqueurs: they are full of calories and sugar.
Stay active. Nothing predicts weight loss and weight maintenance more than daily activity. If you're like most, holidays find you running around more than ever, but having less time for yourself. If you don't have time to get to the gym, stay fit by walking daily.
Make the reservation. Social obligations often mean eating out, and if you pick the restaurant, you're guaranteed to be able to eat healthily
Saying no is no rude. Many people feel that if they don't partake in the party feasting tradition, others will perceive them as rude or ungrateful. Hey, it's your diet, your way. You have the right to eat what you want, where you want and in the amount you want
Say no in creative ways and don't feel deprived. You can say to your host, "Oh, I'm sorry. My plan doesn’t include (name the food) but, thanks anyway." Or, "Oh, thank you so much, I'm sure it's wonderful. I'm too full right now, but thanks for asking." Exercise your preference to refuse, but graciously thank your host, firmly.
Prepare for a party and take the edge off your appetite. Eat a small, healthy snack before the party. A sandwich of turkey in a wholemeal pitta stuffed with plenty of salad will fuel you nicely, and at the party, you can choose exactly what you want to eat.
Get support. Sometimes you just need to talk to a friend or buddy, and get some support and motivation to resist those temptations.
