Long Weekends and Special Events

You have had a good week and feel totally in control. Now you are facing the long weekend with dread. Holidays, parties, and special occasions can present a challenge as quite often the focus is on food. The trick is to be prepared, avoid the anxiety that sometimes comes along with dieting and celebrate at the same time. The following are a few suggestions to help you have fun and still control your eating.? Planning ahead is important. Try to anticipate what foods might be available and have a general idea of what you might eat.? Try to eat some protein before you go so you don't arrive hungry.? If you are unsure of the foods that might be at an event take something you know you can have. Consider taking a vegetable tray for an appetizer.? Try a bunless burger, sausage or hot dog. Then have all the "fixings” on the side.? If having an alcoholic beverage, have a glass of water on the side. For every sip of water, have two or three sips of water. It makes the drink last longer.? Think about having no alcohol. Have some soda water in a wineglass so you feel special but avoid the extra calories.? Distance yourself from the food table. If you are away from the foods, you are more likely to avoid temptations.? Focus on the social aspect of the event. Don't make it all about the food. The more you socialize with people, the less likely you are to overeat.? If you do decide to allow yourself a treat, make sure it is something very special and worth the calories. Potato chips, breads and crackers are foods that you can have any time.If you do eat more than intended, keep a proper perspective. Don't turn an event into more than it really is: just another day. Chalk it up to a learning experience and then move forward. One day's indiscretion will not ruin your diet. Your reaction to eating is more important than the eating itself. Your attitudes are central to your ability to control your eating both during and after the event. Call it a learning experience and get right back on track.Don't ever give up!Dr. Doug