Healthier Holiday Parties

Healthful eating is truly a matter of balance. Pick a balance involving higher calorie favorites and lower calorie choices. Balance larger portions of special treats with smaller portions of other favorites. If you plan first it can be easy to take pleasure in healthful eating.

• When at a party, start by inspecting the food table and deciding which items you really want to eat and in what portions. Raw vegetables and fresh fruit offer fiber and are excellent fillers. If you enjoy dip, take just enough to "dip". Boiled shrimp and/or crab are great choices when topped with a bit of lemon or cocktail sauce. Once you have a full plate, leave the food table then eat in another area.

• Second, holiday parties are about visiting, so spend some time between plates of food talking with old and new acquaintances. Talking will help facilitate digestion and pace your rate of eating.