Who can resist a Buffet of Bliss? You don't have to throw away your skinny diet to enjoy scrumptious holiday meals. Here are ideas to keep your physique in check without omitting that second or third dessert.
- Mind over matter – Think positive thoughts. Sometimes anger and frustration (negative feelings) can interfere with digestion.
- Think positively – Change thoughts of losing weight to the desire to obtain a better figure and look like a model. Positive thought Yah!
- Mind over matter - Substitute yogurt plain or vanilla only, as a substitute for ice cream. (It does work)
- Eat slowly and chew everything. Sometimes it takes me so long to eat that I have to reheat the plate. It takes about 20 minutes for the brain to realize satiation. When we eat faster, we tend to eat more
- Substitute plain yogurt for sour cream - Oui and Siggis are only two of the thicker yogurts, or use a Greek-style which is very creamy
- Use cornstarch or mashed potato or mashed beans or pureed vegetables as a thickener in soup replacing flour
- Bake your own bread. Commercial store bread is high in calories, sugar and possibly some unwanted additives
- Use less sugar in baking. I go for half the amount called for and/or substitute apple, pineapple or other sweet juice as a sweetener
- Reduce the amount of butter/oil used in sautéing by adding water or other liquid
- Reduce the amount of butter/oil in baked desserts by adding more liquids like yogurt
- Cut a glass of milk or non-dairy milk or juice with water.
The Dining chapter in Running With Knives revealed how I love to eat. I have used the above ideas to keep weight down and enjoy food more often. I hope that you are inspired to alter and experiment on traditional recipes. Enjoy your extra appetizers and sweet indulgences. When you are the chef, ingredients are within your control. A rare few super tasters will detect the difference.
And yes, I am going to bake extra Heather's Chocolate Cake and eat two large slices and not feel full nor guilty. It is made with olive oil, yogurt and utilizes some of the ideas listed above.
Enjoy! and Happy Holidays!
These ideas that I practice may not work for you or be to your taste. This list is my own. If you are working with a dietitian, seek their advice on adjusting your diet.