How to End the Year on a Healthy Note

By Donna Stark

Only a few more weeks until the holiday season is over, and until that happens, you know you will be knee-deep in a variety of goodies that are guaranteed to test even the strongest of wills. From savory meals to decadent sweets, there is certainly not going to be any shortage of food where you will be heading, will there? But that doesn't mean you need to skip all of the parties you have been invited to and it definitely does not mean you need to pull out those elastic-waisted pants! It just means you need to think strategically about how you are going to handle all of those buffet tables that will be calling your name, over and over and over again.

Smart Decisions at Holiday Parties

Don't let any momentary lapses in judgment affect your waistline and obliterate your health goals. Take a look at the following ideas on how you can stick to your healthy commitments and end the year with no regrets!

• Control your appetizer appetite - Step away from the appetizers ... and those extra calories too! It's better if you can wait for your actual meal, but if you can't, be sure to choose the healthier options on the table.
• Treat yourself to some turkey - Sure, the big turkey day has already passed, but there may still be some parties where it is served, so make the healthier choice and choose white meat over dark. Why? Well, even though some people say that the dark meat is more flavorful, white meat contains fewer calories and less fat.
• Look at all those sides - You certainly won't run out of options when it comes time to fill your plate with side dishes, will you? And because of that, it is so easy to overindulge here too, which is why it is important to choose the ones made from whole, natural foods and avoid those with creamy dressings, heavy sauces, and sugary toppings.
• Sample the desserts - Nobody is asking you to skip the dessert table, but it may be a good idea to sample the desserts instead of helping yourself to as much as you want. Try taking smaller, bite-sized portions or share with a friend to keep those extra calories off your body. 

A Healthy End to the Year

It's always nice to end the year surrounded by good people and great food, but just be sure to follow the suggestions above. You certainly don't want to start the new year on a sour note and post-holiday regret is not fun to deal with at all.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Culver City, Calif.