By Deena Centofanti
Fox 2 News
SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (WJBK) -- Here's the good news. 'Tis the season to celebrate! But here's the struggle. How can you do it and still fit in those skinny jeans? As you find yourself bellying up to the bountiful assortment of holiday delights, here are three rules to live by.
Before you even put on your party clothes, pause and give some thought to how you think about food.
"We have relationships with food that really have nothing to do with nutrition or fueling our body," says Dr. Tracy Juliao with the Beaumont Weight Control Center.
#1 -- Food Equals Fuel
Rule number one is to think of food as fuel. Ask yourself if your gas tank is running on empty.
"We need to be paying attention to am I really hungry or am I fueling something other than hunger?" Juliao says.
#2 -- Boycott Bread
Even if you are hungry, boycott bread. Enjoy veggies, lean meats or even cheese from a platter, but try to avoid cookies, sweets and anything in the bread family.
"Bread causes the hormone insulin... in your body to spike, and insulin is the hormone that tells your body to store your calories in the form of fats," says Dr. Phillip Madonia with the Beaumont Weight Control Center.
#3 -- Don't Overestimate Your Workout
Finally, you know we're supposed to be exercising at least 30 minutes a day, but part three of your skinny jean strategy, remember a little exercise does not justify jumbo portions. Don't overestimate your workout.
"Plenty of people do a short walk around the block and then they feel like it gives them the ability to eat what they want. At the end of the day, a mile walk burns only about 100 calories, which isn't much food," Madonia says.
Also, try to bring a healthy buddy to the parties, someone who will team up with you and keep you from lingering at the treat table.
Here's another trick, when trying to cut calories, enjoy some sparkling water in a wine glass. It still feels like your celebrating but with zero calories.
