Holiday Nutrition Tips In Toronto

Big city living in Toronto during the holiday means Family, Friends, Colleagues, thats what the Holiday is about. Social engagements are everywhere, even I get on the act by hosting a party. A time to catch up with loved ones , especially those not seen for a while. As wonderful as the time of the year might be, it can also be very hazardous to ones health.

If you are anything like me, for most part the holiday season is more about food than anything else. I said it before and I say it again, there is no good gathering in my house without plenty of food to share, especially on the holiday season. So what is the problem with that you say? well for one thing as always there is just too plenty of food and Drinks to share. The problem then becomes the temptation to eat and drink the most. .

We are talking a holiday season filled with some of my favorite foods. From decorated cookies to mashed potatoes, its one food event after another …at the risk of gaining the wrong weight, I've had to teach myself to use the holiday season as a time, to exercise control over my eating habits.

Controlling my eating habits particularly during the holiday season is no simple task. However the idea is that by doing so, this will simplify things for me in the nutrition department hopefully throughout the year. I want to focus on the things that really matter to me and at the end of the day, looking good and Feeling good matters to me.

This holiday season like all other ones, my waistline will be closely monitored while I make a point to Enjoy the company of my loved ones . For most people, including me, this is always a special moment time of the year, a moment for everyone. It can be a wonderful holiday if one sticks to a good sensible eating plan.

This blog is dedicated to a guilt free holiday. Here is a recipe that I sometimes bring with me to some of the attended parties. A lean and mean recipe that has helped me navigate through the holiday. Any training or nutrition questions or comments are welcomed. Feel free to use the comment box or Email. Cheers

TORONTO'S TOP 5 GUILT FREE TIPS FOR A HEALTHY HOLIDAY

TIP #1: Feed your stomach before you go and party.

Always aware of what I eat. I will choose and pick my meals and drinks very cautiously, I have eaten well before I arrived at the party, therefore not too concerned about the food at the event. Am well aware that temptation will lead to over indulgence and eventual weight gain.

TIP #2: Do not feast on the dessert, it is to be tasted only.

Eating sweets and savoring them is a tempting urge almost irresistible. You must resist at all costs. make the affair with sweets a one time one night experience. You are better off sampling a little bit of each but do not commit. Don't give in and devour every bit of it. Look at desserts as something to savor, not something to fill up on.

TIP #3: Do not consume liquid calories.

Pop, Juices, Alcohol. these are all drinks that will lead to high glucose levels. All these beverages are plenty by the dozen all year round, but during the holiday season , we consume tremendous amounts. Not very wise to over indulge on these drinks.

I've learned through experience and some convincing from my waistline, Sweet drinks and alcohol amounted to simply nothing but calories added to water, calories packed in a cup, These calories never took up much room in my stomach and so I was constantly left wide open for even more liquid calories. So what do I do, I avoid these beverages altogether, and stick with water. I now aim to drink 2-3 glasses of water at the party.

TIP #4: Serve your plate only once.

At this point am already full anyway. With the sensible meal I eat at home already in my stomach, this rule is never less easy to keep. It is not easy limiting me to one plate at these holiday parties. However, now I can fill my plate with what I want, but only once. No going back for seconds.

TIP #5: Bring some healthy food to the holiday function.

Healthy snacks are a good way to become the hero at the holiday function. As you may be aware, healthy eating is the last thing on most peoples minds during this time of the year. It is also good when everybody can bring small item for the social engagement. Being the health conscious fellow, I know that most people expect that of me and rightfully so. I take great pleasure in making sure that everybody is involved and is a part of the holiday celebration.

Here it is: Bring this Hummus recipe to your next function.

HUMMUS WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATO AND BASIL

While the red and green speckles give this homemade hummus a jolly look, it's the taste that makes it unforgettable. This dip makes the perfect party take-along. Serve it up with whole grain pita bread or fresh cut veggie sticks. Yield: 12 servings

Here are your Ingredients:

garbanzo beans 1 (15 oz) can

1 tahini Tablespoon

oil 1 olive Tablespoon

juice1 Tablespoon lemon

water1 Tablespoon

garlic cloves 2 , mashed

1/4 salt teaspoon

soy sauce2 teaspoons

tomatoes 4 sun-dried

1/4 cup basil leaves

Throw all the ingredients into a food processor and combine until smooth.

Nutritional Profile: One serving equals: 55 calories, 2g fat, 6g carbohydrate, 2g fiber, and 2g protein.

Now you have all the tips you need for a guilt and weight gain free holiday.

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Spread the word. Forward this Blog Post to your friends, family and coworkers. Hoping all is well and well is all. Cheers

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