The holidays are fast approaching and most of us will find ourselves tempted with all the food that is involved.  Here are some tips to help keep you on track this holiday season:

• Stay hydrated.  Always have a calorie-free beverage in hand and refrain from excess alcohol. 
   
• It’s OK to say NO.  Do not feel guilty about turning away those high-calorie foods.  Practice politely saying no this holiday season.
   
• Do not hang around the food table.  Have those conversations with your family and friends away from the food. 
   
• Use a small plate.  This will help keep your portions in check.
   
• Bring a healthy dish to the holiday party. You know there will be a healthy option to turn to.
   
• Out and about shopping?  Eat a balanced meal before you leave home.  Then pack protein options to take with you; tuna packets, jerky, nuts, etc. And remember to stay hydrated!!
   
• Don’t go to the holiday gathering hungry.  Before you leave home, plan to eat a small snack or light meal with protein and fiber before you go.
   
• Stay active. Start a new family tradition by going on a hike together.  Or sign up for a local holiday 5K or one-mile walk. Other ideas could include snow sledding, walking around to see Christmas lights, ice skating, etc.  
   
• Don’t take home the unhealthy leftovers.  And if you hosted the dinner, send those dishes home with your guests. 
   
• Keep a food diary.  This will help you stay on track to make sure you are meeting your goals.
   
• Don’t stress!  If you find yourself reverting to old habits during the holiday, just try your best to get back on the track the next day.  Lots of weight gain doesn’t come from just a single day of bad eating or splurging. It comes from poor choices day after day. 

Recipe Share:

Candy Cane Protein Shake
Makes:  2 servings

Ingredients:  

• 2 cups ice
• 1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder
• ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese (or use plain Greek yogurt instead)
• ¾ cup light almond milk
• 1 tbsp sweetener
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• Light whipped topping

Instructions:

Blend together and serve with light whipped cream!  To get into the holiday spirit, crush a sugar-free peppermint candy and sprinkle on top!

If you don’t want a strong mint flavor, it is recommended that you add only a ¼ tsp of peppermint extract at a time. 

Macros:

Serving size:  1 shake             
Calories:  117kcal                   
Carbohydrates:  4g                  
Protein:  20g                           
Fat:  3g