Tips Of The Day

Dietician Sheela Sherawat

Eating Smart: How to Navigate Party Food

Eating Smart: How to Navigate Party Food

Parties are all about fun, friends, and fantastic food. But when you're trying to maintain a balanced diet, attending a party can feel like a nutritional minefield. The good news is that you can enjoy yourself without completely derailing your healthy eating habits. Here's a guide on what and how to eat when you're headed to a party:

**1. Plan Ahead:

Eat a balanced meal or snack before heading to the party. This will help curb your appetite and prevent you from overindulging when you arrive.
**2. Mindful Choices:

Survey the food options available. Opt for healthier choices like fresh fruits, veggies, lean protein, and whole grains when possible.
Be mindful of portion sizes. Use smaller plates to help control your portions.
**3. Stay Hydrated:

Drink plenty of water throughout the party. Sometimes, thirst can be mistaken for hunger, and staying hydrated can help you avoid unnecessary snacking.
**4. Limit Alcohol:

Alcohol can be calorie-dense and lower inhibitions, leading to overeating. Consume alcoholic beverages in moderation, and consider alternating with water or other non-alcoholic options.
**5. Avoid Mindless Snacking:

Engage in conversations and activities to keep your hands busy. This can help you avoid continuously snacking out of habit.
**6. Choose Sweets Wisely:

If you have a sweet tooth, pick one small dessert or treat that you truly enjoy rather than sampling everything on the dessert table.
**7. Be Mindful of Sauces and Dressings:

Sauces, dips, and dressings can be calorie-packed. Use them sparingly or ask for them on the side so you can control the amount.
**8. Socialize Away from the Buffet Table:

Engaging in conversation away from the food area can help redirect your focus from eating.
**9. Listen to Your Body:

Pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues. Stop eating when you're satisfied, not when you're stuffed.
**10. No Guilt Allowed:
- Remember that it's okay to indulge occasionally. Guilt can lead to a negative relationship with food. Enjoy the treats, and get back on track with your regular eating habits afterward.

**11. Stay Active:
- Don't forget to stay active. Engage in physical activity before or after the party to help balance your calorie intake.

**12. Be Kind to Yourself:
- If you do overindulge, don't beat yourself up. Tomorrow is a new day to get back on track with your healthy eating routine.

Parties should be about enjoyment, not anxiety over food choices. By making mindful decisions and savoring your favorite treats in moderation, you can have a great time at the party while still staying on the path to a healthier you.