How to avoid overeating at holiday parties

Healthy eating can get lost in the festivities during family holidays. When attending parties, hosting get-togethers or having a festive dinner it's hard to keep from overindulging and packing on extra holiday pounds. CanadianLiving.com asked Toronto-based registered nutritionist Julie Mancuso for tips on how to avoid the holiday bulge.

• Eat the veggies and the low-fat cheese on the party platter
Eating healthy all year will make an impact on your eating habits come party season. Eat veggies, protein and low-fat meals and try to avoid sugar. Your body won't crave sweets as much if you're eating healthy, so you'll be less tempted to pick up that cheesecake.

• Do a pre-party workout
Not only will you feel better (and look slender in your cocktail dress), but your body will be craving healthy food options rather than a sugar-coated cookie if you sweat it out pre-party. "Your metabolic rate will also be higher," adds Mancuso, "which will help you digest food better and burn the calories faster."

• Eat before you go out
Never head into any kind of party on an empty stomach! You will end up eating far more than you actually need, or even really want. Mancuso suggests having a protein-rich snack, such as a handful of nuts, plain yogurt with fruit or a few crackers with cheese. This kind of snack will boost your metabolism and keep you feeling full longer.

• Use a small plate
"This will really help you eat less food," explains Mancuso. A smaller plate piled high with veggies and healthy meats will give your eyes the impression that you are having a feast. Don't have a small plate? Try using a napkin – you will only be able to fit enough food into the palm of your hand, ideal when you hit the sweets table! 

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