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It's the same struggle every year. You walk into a holiday party and you're greeted by the hostess, who encourages you to dig into the huge spread of tasty hors d'oeuvres. But how can you enjoy the evening without going overboard? It is possible! By focusing on popular party snacks that have health-boosting benefits, you can savor the season and drop pounds. Cheese Full-fat cheese is packed with protein, so a small amount will satisfy you quickly, which means eating some of the real deal (versus lowfat or fat-free) may actually help you lose weight. Choose hard, full-flavor cheeses like Parmesan or aged Gouda, because their sharp taste helps you conquer cravings fast. These cheeses are slightly higher in calories than soft ones like Brie, but they have more protein. Stick with 1 oz—or four to five small cubes—per day. Champagne At 100 calories per 5-oz serving, champagne is one of the few naturally low-calorie beverages you can always reach for without counting calories in your head. But stick to just one glass per evening: Because of the carbonation, your body will absorb champagne faster, which means you'll feel the effect sooner than with other alcoholic beverages. Roasted Nuts The ideal pairing for a happy hour cocktail, nuts are full of fiber, which can help keep your blood sugar levels stable and lower your risk of type 2 diabetes. They are high in calories, so use this rule to avoid overdoing it: Take a small handful and put it on your plate at the beginning of a party. Munch on that amount instead of grabbing nuts throughout the evening. Easy Recipe: Festive nuts (16 servings) Toss 1 cup each of almonds, walnuts and pecans + 3 Tbsp olive oil + 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce + 4–5 sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary + a pinch of red pepper flakes, sea salt and pepper. Roast in the oven at 350°F on a baking sheet for 20 to 25 minutes. Click here for healthier holiday suggestions from Woman's Day. More from Woman's Day: What tips are helping you stay on track during the holiday season? |
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