Ah, yes. It is time for the annual office holiday party.  You found the perfect, appropriate Secret Santa gift for under $20, the outfit and makeup are perfect, and you’re ready for awkward small talk with co-workers. However, the message that plays repeatedly in your head is, “Don’t eat too much.  Don’t drink too much.  Stick to your healthy eating plan.”

Don’t let the office party sabotage your S.M.A.R.T. weight management goals.  So, here are five strategies to keep you healthy and smiling during your office Holiday party.

Get a Good Workout Early In the Day

It is a busy time of year but stick to your S.M.A.R.T. exercise goals.  Do your regular workout the day of the Holiday party and try to add a few more minutes to your workout.  Remember, even a 20-minute walk can burn off an extra 100 to 150 calories. 

Take the Edge Off Your Appetite

Do not go to the party hungry.  Don’t starve yourself all day to “save up” for the party.  Starving yourself or going hungry will lower your blood sugar and make you want to devour all the mini quiches in one bite. 

Instead, eat a light meal or healthy snack before you go to the party.  Great ideas are: half of a sandwich, a handful of nuts, a protein shake, or Greek yogurt.

Socialize, Smile, and Sparkle

Remember, you are not there for the food.  You were invited as a social obligation (honestly) to “celebrate” the end of the year with your peers.  Keep a clear head because your behavior outside of the office can have a direct effect on your career.  If you did not get a year-end bonus, do not use the Holiday party to “eat and drink your bonus.”  So, resist the urge to stand all night at the buffet table and sample every kind of alcohol that is served.

So, greet the host/hostess, say hello to your supervisor, catch up with co-workers, and talk to someone you do not know well.  After the social niceties are done, size up the food. 

Be Strategic with the Buffet

Take a few minutes to walk around and scan what food is available.  Whether the event is a luncheon, reception with heavy appetizers, or a full buffet, keep moderation in mind. 

Use small plates.  Small plates can affect how much you eat, which is the reason why Holiday parties use them instead of large plates.  Look over the buffet table and decide what you really want to eat.  Eat small amounts of three or four of your favorite foods and sample one or two new foods.  Enjoy your dessert guilt free! 

Watch What and How Much You Drink

People drink too much at Holiday parties.  A toast to a successful year is fine but watch how much you drink because you can be sure that others are watching you.  Alternate a glass of beer, wine, or champagne with a glass of water.  If you don’t drink, still pay attention to the empty calories in the punch, juice, and eggnog.  And speaking of eggnog, 1 cup has 223calories compared to the 222 calories in a small serving of fries. Just saying.

Reflect

Remember to set realistic goals for the holidays. If you’re very stressed, review the 5 Ways to Control Stress Eating blog post.  Even if you make mistakes and put on a few pounds during the holidays, get back to a healthy eating plan as soon as possible.  Make that New Year’s resolution to get back on track!

Please share your experience in the comment section of this blog. Or you can join the conversation on the Keep It Tight Sisters Facebook Group.

Keep It Tight Sisters.

Eat. Move. Breathe.