Buzz
During the holiday season, many of us will be attending various festive gatherings. If you're aiming to reduce your calorie intake, steer clear of store-bought snacks at these events.
In an interview with Consumer Reports, Brian Wansink, the author of Slim by Design: Mindless Eating Solutions for Everyday Life, offered a simple tip to help reduce calorie consumption while still enjoying the festivities:
"A great guideline: Don't eat it unless it's homemade," Wansink advises. "Thanksgiving isn't the time to go on a diet, but if you pass on Aunt Grace's dressing, peach pie, or signature casserole, she may be hurt. However, she won't mind if you skip the Chex mix, peanuts, or nachos from a bag. Those aren't her creations. By avoiding packaged or processed foods, a person can cut their calorie intake by as much as 9 percent."
While Wansink's advice pertains to snacks, it can also be applied to desserts, side dishes, or even main courses. If you can find the same item elsewhere, skip it. Save your appetite (and your calories) for the special dishes that can't be found anywhere else.
Photo credit: dennis crowley.
