Moontown

INDULGE but don’t overdo.

That was the advice given by the Ministry of Health to the public yesterday so that a ’safe, happy and healthy holiday season’ can be enjoyed by all.

In a press release, the Health Ministry offered eight tips for citizens ’to be better prepared to manage weight and personal health’.

These tips ranged from, never going to a holiday event on an empty stomach to limiting alcohol consumption.

The eight tips are as follows:

1. Don’t Go Hungry- Never go to a holiday event on an empty stomach. Make sure you have a good breakfast and a light snack before heading out. A light snack can include protein and carbohydrates, even some yogurt, fruits and mixed nuts. This can help you to curb your appetite.

2. Choose Carefully- Look over the buffet table before you pick up your plate in order to avoid overeating. Make sure to choose vegetables and salads.

3. Salad Plate - By using a salad plate you will definitely consume less. It’s a safe choice.

4. Think Tablespoon - Count in tablespoons, not serving spoons; you can try various dishes, but limit yourself to one or two tablespoons.

5. Limit Alcohol- Some alcoholic drinks are very high in calories. Limit your intake of alcohol and then switch to fruit juice or even water (no calories). Also alcohol can impair your judgment. If you are drinking, though, designate a driver.

6. No need to stand near the buffet station- Standing near the buffet station will definitely tempt you, so to avoid this try a location at the opposite end.

7. Enjoy the once-a-year items- You can have some extras of the popular dishes around this season, but you should give up the other items to which you are used.

8. Give- If you get a basket full of goodies or some food item in a large quantity, try sharing it around. By keeping it all to yourself, it becomes more tempting. (Trinidad Express)