You’ve heard it before right? Or maybe even said it yourself.  “Calories don’t count on Christmas, girl’s night, office party, etc…..

While I love the carefree idea behind this saying, I hate to say it, but it’s stinkin’ thinkin’. This mindset is not going to allow you to navigate Christmas parties while losing weight. Let’s talk about it. 

1. It’s a lie. Simply put, all food that enters your body gives you energy (calories) and your body uses or stores that energy regardless of what day of the year or event you are at.

2. This implies the “cheat day” philosophy. When you eat in moderation, you don’t need a cheat day. You don’t need to overindulge at the dessert bar, because these foods are available to you anytime you want them in moderate amounts. You know the feeling. You were really looking forward to those oreos, but you go to the pantry to discover someone has beat you to it and they’re all gone. You might as well pull out the car keys, because its all you can think about. You NEED it. 🙂 This is the same thing that happens when you deprive yourself of certain foods. It becomes all you can think about.

Now that we cleared the air, and you know those calories are going to count at the Christmas party, let’s talk about how to handle it. 

You have 6 Christmas parties in December this year.  How are you going to lose weight if you attend all of these parties? Before you start replying no, let me give you some guidance. 

1. Don’t go hungry. I always eat before I go to an event. First of all, I’m a snacker so I eat every 2-3 hours. This works for me, but it doesn’t work for everyone. Secondly, I get the hangrys. For me to keep a smile on my face, there must be food in my tummy. I can’t go to an event and wait 2-3 hours before they feed me and still be pleasant 🙂 Last but not least, it keeps you from overeating. When you are starving, your body has a more difficult time communicating that you are full which leads to eating more calories than you really need.

2. Have a plan. A realistic one. Decide before you go what you think you are going to eat and drink. Are you going to drink a glass of wine? Appetizer? Meal? Dessert? Decide realistically what you are going to eat and stick with it. 

3. Go green. Nibbling at that vegetable tray will not only give you the fiber and nutrients that your body needs, but it will slow you down. It takes longer to eat, so you aren’t eating as much. 

4. Use a small plate. Our eyes are always hungrier than our stomach. Using the small appetizer plate, limits the amount of food you can pile on. This will help decrease your chances of overeating.

5. Think before you drink. Alcohol is empty calories that add up very quickly. Stick to wine or spritzers if you want to drink, but remember that  there is not a lot of wiggle room for empty calories when you are trying to lose weight. And it makes it even more difficult to drink alcohol and eat a dessert. Decide what’s most important to you.

6. Skip everyday foods. Chips, dips, etc. Save room for the fancy main course or special dessert you never get. 

7. Drink water. Drink a glass before you go to the event and drink a glass of water between alcoholic beverages. This will keep you hydrated. 

Remember to focus on the event, not the food. Yes, I know I sound like a walking contradiction, but remember that keyword moderation. I don’t want you to overindulge because you are not thinking about healthy choices, but food should not be center stage. Do a quick trip around the room when you first get there and decide what you want to eat. Then stick to your plan and enjoy the company. You are there to socialize and have fun!!!

No more stressing about navigating a Christmas party while losing weight! Just adopt a couple of your favorite tips and enjoy yourself!

Which tips are you ready to try?