Navigating Spring Feasts without Sacrificing Your Health
(ARA) – Backyard barbecues, game-day dining and vacation cuisine – spring is filled with opportunities to enjoy food and fun in the sun. But it’s also rife with risk for anyone trying to eat healthy.
“It’s not uncommon for people to associate the holidays with a high-risk time, but warm weather also brings unique challenges for those trying to eat well,” says Karen Miller-Kovach, chief scientific officer of Weight Watchers International.
It is possible to get greet spring with your good intentions – and your waistline – intact. Here’s advice for dealing with some food-related obstacles commonly faced during this busy time.
Avoid the Party Binge
“Humans are social animals and eating is a very social experience,” Miller-Kovach notes. “That’s why we tend to eat more at parties – plus, warm-weather celebrations usually serve up a variety of treats that we don’t usually get throughout the year.”
Before you head out to a backyard barbecue or spring party, dine at home on healthy fare that will keep you feeling full, like lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables. Curbing your appetite ahead of time will help you keep control at the party.
Go light on cocktails. Alcohol has a lot of empty calories. Opt for spritzers – sparkling soda water and some fruit flavors – as a healthful alternative to spirits.
Be Mindful When on the Road
If you’re dining out a lot while on vacation, it may be hard to stick to your weight loss plan. But there are ways to minimize the damage of restaurant eating.
First, skip the appetizer. Appetizers are often fried and can pack more calories than the entrée.
Second, watch out for calorie overload that’s caused by eating the entire portion normally served in restaurants. If you’re getting full, try not to clean your plate; eat only half of what you’re served and take home the rest.
If you’re taking long drives, avoid buying snacks along the way. Instead, pack your own goodies – like almonds, apples or even baby carrots.
Flying? Airport delays are not uncommon and same goes here - plan ahead to avoid eating airport food and pack your own snacks so that you are in control. For instance, Weight Watchers subscribers can use tools like the new Weight Watchers Mobile, to help them track their food options and maintain their weight loss efforts while on the go.
Spring into Health
A scientifically-based approach to weight loss, such as Weight Watchers Meetings and Weight Watchers Online, can provide you with the tools and information you need to embark on a healthy lifestyle, lose weight and keep it off. Visit www.WeightWatchers.com for more information.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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