The holidays should be a joyful time for everyone: family, traditions, celebrations, gifts and yes, food. An abundance of food, the kind of food we yearn for all year long. But, November and December are also the two most calorie-centric months of the year, so making small changes can make a big difference. Here are 10 tips to help you eat healthier this season.

  • Don’t skip any regularly scheduled meals prior to the party. 
  • This is a recipe for overindulging on foods that are probably not on your regular meal plan. It is okay to plan on having a good time and enjoying the food, but don’t set yourself up for guilt later.

  • Scout it.
  • Whether it is a buffet table, waiter-served hors d’ouevres, or the dinner table, there are always healthier and more diabetic friendly choices available. Scout out the options first to make sure you choose wisely.  

  • Savor it. 
  • Eat slowly and savor all of the foods on your plate. Americans, in particular, tend to eat their meals too quickly. Because it takes 20 minutes for your stomach and brain to connect, it’s easy to overeat. Eating slowly allows your body to tell you it’s full before you overindulge.

  • Portion it.
  •  You don’t have to bypass foods that you truly enjoy, you just need to eat sensible amounts. If you’ve been waiting all year for the bacon wrapped shrimp, then be sure to have one or two, but not five.

  • Put sauces and dressings on the side. 
  • These are big calorie monsters. Putting them on the side allows you to more adequately gauge the real portion size.

  • Lighten it. 
  • Sparkling water with fruit slices is a festive low calorie option, not just during the holidays, but anytime. Alcohol with soda or other mixers can add excess calories and impact your glucose levels. If alcohol is a must on your holiday list, opt for wine or light beer.

  • Substitute it. 
  • If you really want mashed potatoes, then bypass the dinner roll so you can fully enjoy your indulgence.

  • Bring a healthy dish.
  • Offer to bring a dish for dinner that you know is healthy, you like to eat, and is on your meal plan.

  • Keep moving. 
  • Enjoy the company and camaraderie of friends and family by moving around the room and socializing instead of being near the buffet. This requires making a conscious decision to go to the buffet to eat and helps avoid mindless snacking.

  • Wait for dessert. 
  • When you are full, you cannot fully enjoy and savor your dessert. It’s always smart to consider taking a smaller portion.