Easy Ways to Reduce Calories

At this time of year, with a variety of gatherings, celebrations & events, you may find yourself being offered lots of tempting treats that are hard to resist.

It's ok to enjoy the holidays and allow yourself some small indulgences. However, in order to prevent holiday weight gain, we recommend that you incorporate the following calorie-saving strategies into your daily eating habits:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water contains zero calories, and staying hydrated will reduce false hunger pangs.

• Fill yourself up with lots of veggies before eating your meal. This will take the edge off your hunger & will help you keep your portion sizes small.

• Walk away from the dinner table before you are "full." Put your fork down when you feel 80% full.

• Eat salads, but be sure to have the dressing on the side. Instead of pouring the dressing on top, dip your fork in the dressing before each bite. You will be amazed by how little dressing you use without compromising the taste at all.

• Watch out for hidden coffee calories! Some of the fancy drinks at coffee shops can contain as many calories as an entire lunch. A cafe mocha, for example, can easily be 400 calories -- more than a grilled chicken sandwich. If you drink coffee, keep it simple. Black coffee is best. Or, add a touch of almond milk.

• Know the difference between a treat and a snack. A "snack" is a healthy mini-meal to tide you over between meals and should always contain a vegetable or a fruit + protein. You should eat two snacks a day. A "treat" is a tasty, but non-nutritious food or drink with lots of empty calories. You should limit yourself to one or two treats per week.

• Remember: your stomach is not a trash can. Treat your body with respect by feeding it nourishing food.