How are you managing your weight these days? We are well into the holiday season now and it will continue until mid January for some individuals. Some of us started the holiday season in October, with the  New York Halloween parade in the Village. Thanksgiving was another time to gather with family and friends around a bountiful table of food to eat and and be grateful for life’s blessing. Have you been able to maintain your weight or are your clothes fitting a little tighter now?

Here are a few tips for holiday eating and entertaining.

Eat mindfully. Before leaving for a social gathering drink a glassful of water and think about what you are going to eat when you arrive. Choose from raw crudites, fruit, steamed veggies, one small cupcake (discard the icing or enjoy a small amount), 2-3 plain butter cookies. If you eat meat/poultry choose a lean cut such as four ounces ( no larger than a deck of cards) of turkey breast.

Drink a glass of water for every glass of wine. A wine spritzer would save on empty calories and you can still enjoy the time.

Drink hibiscus sabdariffa tea without cane sugar. Agave nectar, for sweetening, is a better choice as it won’t result in a spike in blood sugar. Studies indicate that hibiscus tea helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol.

Serve water and sparkling water in a lovely stem glass and top with a twist of lemon or lime. You might also consider serving flavored sparkling water.

Offer your guest mini cup cakes, squares of bitter sweet chocolate and other mini sweets with a great cup of brewed white tea or smooth Colombian coffee.

Eat fiber rich, nutrient dense foods. You’ll feel fuller and satisfied. Remember to eat mixed salad greens and drink water to prevent constipation and dehydration.

What are your suggestions and tips for weight maintainance during the holiday season? Leave your wellness tips below!