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10 Healthy Holiday Season Tips for Thyroid Patients

By , About.com Guide

Updated November 18, 2010

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Would You Like a Drink?
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The holidays are time when wines, spirits, champagne and special drinks are flowing. But you need to remember that drinks have calories, and they're empty calories. On top of that, when you drink alcohol, it may encourage you to eat more as well.

The average alcoholic drink contains 150-200 calories per glass. Indulge in just 2-3 drinks and you've just imbibed the equivalent of an entire meal.

If you partake in these beverages, choose wisely. For example, instead of having a full glass of wine, try making a spritzer by mixing half a glass of wine with sparkling water.

You may also want to alternate alcoholic drinks with club soda or soft drinks.

And the problem is not just alcoholic drinks. What's better than a trip to your favorite Starbucks or coffee shop on a cold day? But if you plan to indulge, be careful. For example, a whole milk Mocha Grande at Starbucks has more than 400 calories!

Instead, enjoy the season, and savor a cup of coffee with a splash of skim or low-fat milk -- at less than 50 calories. If you have to indulge in a specialty drink, at least go with a nonfat version, to shave off some calories.

And don't forget eggnog... the traditional holiday treat packs a whopping 342 calories in each 8-ounce serving. If you're an eggnog fan like I am, try this delicious recipe for Low-fat, Low-calorie Eggnog instead.

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