'Tis the season to gain weight! I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm already overwhelmed with festivities and the food and drinking that accompanies these holiday celebrations. Fortunately, the January issue of Consumer Reports looks at eight ways to enjoy holiday bliss without the bulge. The report suggests techniques like substituting turkey sausage for pork sausage when preparing a stuffing, "preloading" before parties with a light snack such as Greek yogurt with fruit and a sprinkling of nuts and sharing food gifts you receive by taking them to work or another gathering.
Here are a few more article highlights:
* Celebrate food with flavorings such as cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg to capture great flavors without the calories. Try adding nutmeg and ginger to butternut squash soup, for example, or dust baked apples with cinnamon.
* When preparing stuffing, consider turkey sausage instead of pork and try reduced-sodium, fat-free broths in gravies, stuffing, and stews. Reduced-fat dairy products can replace full-fat versions in casseroles. And for dessert, try sorbet or fruit with cheese and almonds instead of ice cream and buttery cookies.
* Too many drinks can increase your appetite and possibly lower your inhibitions. Opt for a glass of wine or a light beer (about 100 calories) instead of, say, a margarita, which can have twice as many calories.
* When weather permits, plan outings such as a holiday bike ride or a 5K walk or run. In colder climates, consider ice skating, snowshoeing or cross country skiing. Reward yourself with a mug of hot spiced cider.
On a totally different note, I've been on a major diet ginger ale kick lately. In the past, I've reached for ginger ale whenever I had an upset stomach or sore throat. More recently, though, I've just really enjoyed the taste. So for all you sugar-free soda fans, consider diet ginger ale the next time you're looking for a low-cal, fizzy treat.
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