New Year’s Eve is traditionally considered the ‘LAST” holiday of the holiday season that starts with Thanksgiving. Many times this party is similar to a tailgate party but might be considered fancier. The food is always superb and usually a little different from our everyday fare. It is important to remember to not let your food safety or healthy eating guard down now. Follow these ideas to have a safe and healthy ‘last’ party of 2017.
    Have a plan against food that is excessive in fat and calories by including some lower-calorie choices. Positioning yourself away from heaping platters. Have an idea what you will eat. For example, choose to have three of your favorites. You don’t have to eat some of everything just because it’s there.
    Check a few things before going to the party. Look at the nutrition facts on different foods, check how many calories per serving and the size of the serving. Plan to eat food from a plate versus directly from a bag or box so you’re not blindsided by the amount you’re consuming.
    Plan to do some exercise at least twice a week. The sooner you start, the greater the benefits.
    Resist overloading on calories before the party so you can enjoy goodies later without guilt. Avoid too many calories by choosing smaller portions. Pace yourself by alternating between higher and lower calorie foods. Bypass seconds at the buffet table — or take smaller portions the second time around.

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