The holidays can be tough for those of us who are trying to lose weight. Lots of sweets, breads, and high carb veggies. By making our meals Paleo, they are indulgent, but not wildly out of control. Over at my other blog Primal and Paleo, Parenting and Passion, I posted our Paleo/Primal menu that I served Thanksgiving.
My best thought on the posting was "Sometimes you've got to bend, but you don't have to break." That can be used with any situation. Just because Auntie Betty brought her 5 ton brick angel food cake, doesn't mean you have to eat it. If Auntie Betty is a grown up, she will understand that you are trying to eat more healthy and/or trying to lose weight, and not be offended. If she does get offended, then she needs to grow up! If you are of the mindset that her feelings will be hurt beyond repair, have a bite (that's one BITE not one PIECE). Pick your battles wisely. The war will fight on another day.
Now that Thanksgiving is past (for the Americans), most everyone has another couple of holidays to go, Christmas/Hanukkah and, of course, New Years, and we must make it through those with minimal damage. Stick to your guns, again, bend, don't break. If you are hosting, then it's tons easier since you control the menu, if you are a guest, be proactive and either A) bring a few side dishes you can eat and share: B) speak to the host/ess and explain that you are dieting, and need just plain ol' veggies. The bonus in all of this is that meat is meat, and you can have a palm sized portion (try to get the inner portion that doesn't have a lot of salt and oil on it), whether you are having more turkey, roast duck, ham, or some sort of beef, all can be enjoyed (yes even the duck and ham) with limited damage, if you keep your portions reasonable.
Never fear Uncle Ted's hairy eyeball on you when he sees you pass on the gravy and pie. Just smile, and give him a wink. He'll be so confused that when he starts complaining to Auntie Betty, he'll just sound goofy!
New Years brings it's own problems. Personally, if I imbibe, I stick to one or two Margaritas, but, we still have Littles, so we don't go out. Again, bend, but don't break. Just about everyone puts out a veggie platter, eat those celery sticks with abandon! Sip your drink (soda water is always good!), and take your place in the center of the crowd, all of whom will admire (and be jealous) of your amazing weight loss!
Holidays are a time to see those loved ones you haven't seen in a while. To catch up, to love and laugh. Food has become the center piece, but you can change that. Make people the center of enjoyment!
Happy holidays!
No comments:
Post a Comment