How to Eat Before & During a Food-Filled Gathering

Follow these tips to stay healthy while still enjoying all the great snacks!

How to Eat Before & During a Food-Filled Gathering

Just because foods people like to serve at big gatherings are indulgent, doesn't mean you can't have them! Just set yourself up for success. Follow these tips for healthy eating before the get-together and staying in control while you're there.

BREAKFAST & LUNCH

Have something light and healthy for your first two meals. Make sure they are low in sodium so you don't overdo it before snacking later. And be sure to hydrate! Drink lots of water throughout the day to keep you satiated. That way, you won't be out of control with the indulgent food later.

DURING THE GAME

Remember the 3-2-1 snack strategy. If you have a few things to choose from (like the mozzarella sticks, jalapeno poppers and pizza pockets we mentioned here), but you want to have it all, follow these tips.

  • Pick your top two favorites. Have three of each.
  • Pick your third favorite item. Have two of it.
  • Have one each of the remaining items available.

This way, you'll have a game plan ahead of time that you can stick to. You'll be able to control the calories and sodium while still enjoying all your favorite treats!

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Gain control of your disease while still protecting your heart

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Researchers published a study in Diabetes Care that took a second — and more in-depth — look at data from the NIH's Look AHEAD study. They found that for 85% of people in that study, lifestyle interventions that triggered weight loss and increased physical activity reduced potential cardiovascular problems. Such lifestyle interventions also help reduce the risks for diabetes, dementia and some cancers and strengthen the immune system.

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