Now that we've entered the month of November, the door is wide open to what can become a two-month feeding frenzy in a season filled with food events.  Think buffets, food-focused parties, special edible "treats" in the break room, and the like.  

Choosing to live by the exceptions (“Oh, just this once….”) often results in regrets, feelings of guilt, unwanted pounds, and other negative consequences.  Fortunately, there are a number of strategies that we can put into practice to fight those food temptations and maintain self-control. 

-   Eat an apple or other whole fruit, or enjoy a bowl of broth-based soup before you go out.

-   Enjoy the non-food elements of the gathering by noticing and appreciating the décor, delighting in the entertainment, and
    getting engrossed in great conversations away from the food.

-   Drink an eight-ounce glass of water before you get sit down for the meal or go to the buffet table.

-   If you have a choice of plate size, choose to use the small one.

-   If fresh veggies and fruits are available, put them on your plate first, and DIP, don’t dunk, drench, or drown them. 

-   Be OK with not filling or heaping your plate.

-   Refrain from going back for “seconds,” or wait at least ten to twenty minutes before you do.

-   If fresh veggies and fruits are available, put them on your plate first.

-   Stay in the driver’s seat if you do indulge yourself; choose to limit yourself to one delicacy; then eat it slowly to savor it.

-   If you are bringing food to the event, have it be a healthy choice.

-   If you are hosting the event, make sure the menu is loaded with healthy choices.

-   Start or maintain your routine for daily physical activity.

-   Create a positive self-talk message that speaks to you such as, “Nothing tastes as good as being fit feels.”

Here’s to you and your power to choose wisely and live well!

Sources:  NDSU Extension Service, Foodwise: Your Holiday Questions Answered, December 2013; NDSU Extension Service, Prairie Fare: Eating Tips to Avoid the “Holiday Bulge,” December 2004; Colorado State University, Family Matters: Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season  Photo Credit: https://pixabay.com/en/food-table-party-sandwich-lunch-680180/  (Downloaded 11/3/15)