The basic way to avoid gaining weight is to balance the calories that go in each day with those you burn off. One approach is the SCS Principle: Salt, Cream and Sugar – the deliciously disguised, three-headed dietary monster. By avoiding foods and drinks loaded with these key ingredients, you can win the battle.
Jill MacInnes
What do piggies-in-a-blanket, chips ‘n dips, and baked sweets such as brownies, cakes and cookies all have in common? Lots of fat and other nutritional no-no’s. Most alcoholic beverages are loaded with calories. Did you know a single Bailey’s on the rocks can pack a caloric punch equal to a full meal? Plus, over-indulging in alcohol often leads to over-eating.
OK, you ask: How can I NOT bum you out? Start by trying these excellent choices -- but remember: Everything in moderation! Except mistletoe.
Fresh shrimp & cocktail sauce.
The veggie tray (carrot and celery sticks, radishes, etc.), but watch the ranch dip – tons of hidden calories!
Cheese and crackers, but don’t over-do.
Smoked salmon.
Olives.
Hummus and pita-bread.
Hosting your own holiday gathering? Here are some healthy options:
Buy a bag or two of Tostitos Scoops corn chips. Get your favorite salsa and add avocado chunks and some cooked frozen corn and top with a sprinkle of feta cheese. Fill each cup with just a dab of the salsa – a little goes a long way. Ole’!
Wrap asparagus stalks with a slice of Applegate Farms low-sodium turkey breast and place on a cookie sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes: The asparagus softens and the turkey gets crisp, for a tasty mix of flavors and textures.
Mix blue cheese and chopped walnuts, spread thinly over individual endive pieces.
Buy two packages of Sabra Hummus, one extra-spicy and one either olive or roasted red pepper. Mix the two evenly for a delightfully, but not excessively, spicy hummus. Serve with mini whole-wheat pitas.
Slice smoked salmon into 1-inch pieces. Lightly toast some pumpernickel bread squares (if you can’t find them pre-cut, just slice up a loaf into bite-sized squares). Lightly spread some low-fat cream cheese on the bread and top with the salmon.
Buy a container of Soy Nog. You’ll be amazed at how much this tastes just like the real deal. Add a measure of Meyer’s dark rum to taste and sprinkle with nutmeg and cinnamon.
Place small bowls of olives, unsalted mixed nuts and trail mixes around the table or wherever your guests will assemble. Their waistlines will thank you for the tasty, healthy presents. Happy Holidays!
For more ideas on healthy eats feel free to contact Jill at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
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