The Holidays are Here!

At this time of year, as a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, I am usually asked by journalists what does a nutritionist eat at holiday parties. After working hard all year to stay in shape, I don't want to start the New Year on a diet. So here are my holiday party eating guidelines:

1. Eat light the day of a party. More veggies, salads, grilled fish, or a GoBeFull smoothie concoction. In general during December I try to eat lighter to accommodate all the holiday events.
2. Avoid white flour. This eliminates most cookies, cakes, bread, crackers, and pasta.
3. Avoid trans fats. This eliminates the rest of the cookies, many other desserts, and snack mixes.
4. If there is a dessert I love, I will take a few bites.
5. Avoid anything deep fried.
6. Eat delicious pieces of chocolate.
7. Eat grilled fish.
8. Eat raw or cooked veggies and luscious fresh fruit. A few bites of cheese are good too.
9. Drink two drinks. My favorites include dirty martinis, fine scotch, or red wine.
10. If I am invited to a sit down dinner party, I eat what is served. There will always be something that fits into my guidelines. I never make special food requests to my hosts. No matter what is served, I am grateful for the luxury of someone else making a meal for me. The love and labor involved warms my heart and fills me with gratitude.