Trim down for the Holidays

Christmas is just around the corner. A few people have expressed their desire to look even more fabulous than they already do for their Christmas parties - I recommend a medi/pedi combo, flirty heels and a flattering dress to show of those amazing legs and buns we've been working so hard to sculpt. If you are still self-conscious try cutting your calories SAFELY a few days prior. Below is a few options: Option 1

Breakfast

Cantaloupe - 1 cup Scrambled Eggs - (1/2 cup egg substitute or 1 egg and 1 egg white 1 teaspoon butter). English Muffin (dry, whole-wheat)

Snack

Mug of Granola (2 tbsp. granola + 1/4 cup fat-free milk)

Lunch

Fat-Free Milk - 1 cup Option 2 Breakfast Fat-Free Milk - 1 cup Strawberries - 1/2 cup English Muffin (with butter and jam or peanut butter) - wholewheat or oatbran + 1 teaspoon butter Snack Rye crackers (2) 1 cup fat-free milk Lunch Small Roll - 2 1/2 inches in size. Satisfying Veggie Salad - (1 cup mixed greens 1/3 cup carrots 1/3 cup tomatoes 1/3 cup cucumbers 1/2 cup canned chickpeas 2 tablespoons chopped eggs 2 tablespoons reduced-calorie dressing) Dinner Pasta with Broccoli and Chicken (see below Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich (2 tbsp peanut butter 2 tbsp jelly or jam 2 slices whole wheat bread) Celery Sticks (1/2 cup) and Baby Carrots (1/2 cup)

Dinner

Mixed Greens (2 cups + 1 tbsp reduced-calorie dressing) Spaghetti (1 cup whole wheat spaghetti 1/4 cup meatless pasta sauce 2 tablespoons Parmesan 2 teaspoons chopped basil) Pasta with Broccoli and Chicken Ingredients: 4 ounces whole wheat spaghetti or 2 cups ziti 2 cups broccoli florets, coarsely chopped 1 cup sliced cooked chicken breast 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese 4 teaspoons olive oil Pinch of red-pepper flakes (optional) Instructions: Prepare the pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the liquid. Return the liquid to the pot. Place the pasta in a bowl and cover to keep warm. Bring the liquid to a boil. Add the broccoli, cover, and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until soft, but not soggy. Add the pasta, chicken, cheese, oil, and pepper flakes (if using). Toss well.