How to avoid overeating at holiday parties

• Fill up on fibre and protein
"Before even looking at the dessert table, have a plate of protein-rich foods and foods that are high in fibre. Salads, vegetables and lean meats will be your best options," advises Mancuso. "Try to limit or avoid refined breads and pastas and choose nuts and whole grains for fibre intake." Both fibre and protein will give you a full feeling, keeping your desserts to a nibble or two. 

• Take it slow
Pace yourself when you're eating at a party. Taking small bites and fully chewing food helps you digest it better and control your portion sizes. Plus you need time to realize when you're full. "It takes 20 minutes to feel satiated, so give it some time before you dig in for seconds," says Mancuso.

• Have dessert for two
Is there something that your sweet tooth just can't pass up? It's fine to indulge, but remember, it's all about moderation. So dig into that cake or cookie, but do it with a friend so you only have half the calories.

• Cocktail or cake?
Chances are, there will be plenty of bubbly, not to mention desserts, at holiday parties. To keep slim, choose one or the other and limit yourself to one drink or one sweet. Your body will thank you for it the next day. 

• Eat up before you drink
Alcohol not only decreases your inhibitions, it also causes food cravings.  "For every alcoholic beverage, follow it with a glass of water to keep hydrated," advises Mancuso.  If you are going to imbibe, she adds, "opt for dry red wine or vodka and soda as these drinks tend to be more generous to your waistline."

• Plan ahead if you know you always eat too much 
If you know that you usually eat a little too much when attending a party, then plan ahead. On the day of a party, try to eat less throughout the day so that if you overdo it at night, your calories will balance out.  "If you overate at a party, eat less and opt for healthier options the next day to even out your calorie intake, says Mancuso.  "Indulging once a week won’t be detrimental to your weight-loss goals, but if it continues for more than two days, the pounds will start creeping on."
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