How do you want to feel at the start of 2013? Certainly not with regret for all the overindulging done over the holidays. With a few easy changes you can indulge, without adding the dreaded holiday bulge (or maybe getting rid of some from last holiday!).

Less sugar, same delicious taste: The Mayo Clinic suggests “When making desserts or eggnog, reduce the amount of sugar by half and enhance sweetness by adding a bit of citrus, more vanilla, nutmeg or cinnamon or try turbinado sugar, honey or molasses — their flavor means you can use less.”

Skip the Salt: Herbs and spices add desired flavor without the sodium induced bloating. Some great alternatives are dried garlic, oregano, pepper, sage, rosemary, or tarragon. For a bolder taste, try curry, saffron, or smoked paprika.  Also, you can check your local grocer for already mixed salt free herbal blends.

Forget the fat: “In baked goods you can cut the fat by about half and replace it with unsweetened applesauce, prune puree or mashed banana. Instead of full-fat condensed milk, use condensed skim in drinks, desserts and, yes, even in fudge.”  Mayoclinic.com

Give yourself the gift of a healthier weight: Join the YMCA’s healthy lifestyle program Pathway to a Healthier Weight. This 18-session class provides a positive approach to developing and supporting healthy lifestyles with the ultimate goal of achieving a healthy weight. For more information, contact Meg Radowski at (414) 357-2820 or e-mail mradowski@ymcamke.org.

Have a Healthy and Happy Holiday!