Pickleball Magazine 8-6 WD | Page 95

a winter workout partner , since many players have similar fitness goals . Or partner with a family member who cares about your health as much as you do . Create a weekly calendar and push each other to stay on track .
4 Out of Sight = Less Temptation
When we have easy access to our favorite treats , the lure to overindulge may be too strong . If this is true for you , try keeping temptations out of your home unless it ’ s a special occasion . If you ’ re at a gathering , sit or stand where the snacks are out of view . It ’ s OK to enjoy yourself , but plan to put a little on a plate , then move away from the buffet .
5 Focus on the Social Aspect of Gathering
Picklers tend to be social creatures , and we may be invited to several holiday parties each year . Plan to focus on the social aspect of gathering . Before you arrive , consider new questions to ask people who will be there . This may help you focus on the friends instead of the food and drinks .
6 Think Your Drink
Holiday drinks are often a significant source of calories . They can be high in sugar , fat , and alcohol . In addition , alcoholic drinks can increase your appetite , affect your judgment , and may even alter your digestion and metabolism . Consider trying lower calorie alternative drinks . Mocktails are trending at parties , and you can bring your own to enjoy and share . Also consider drinking a glass of water between each splurge . This can help keep you hydrated and in control .
7 Get Enough Sleep and Avoid Stress
Lack of sleep and chronic stress have both been linked to unwanted weight gain . If you have trouble with either , consider the root causes . For the sake of your long-term health , it may be necessary to get help from your doctor to assist in resolving the conditions .
8 Plan Active Parties
If you host a gathering of your own this year , consider encouraging healthy activities . Plan a rain-or-shine group walk before dinner or play active games like charades . Hold your gathering at the local escape room , skating rink , or indoor pickleball courts .
9 Bring Nutritious Food to the Party
You may be a 3.5 on the court , but you ’ ll be a 5.0 friend if you bring a delicious-but-healthy snack to the party . Try dishes like stuffed mushrooms , deviled eggs , homemade seasoned popcorn , a veggie tray with dipping sauce , a fruit and cheese charcuterie board , or spicy cowboy caviar .
10 Consider Fitness Gifts
If your loved ones enjoy gift exchanges , request fitness-forward gifts like gym memberships , healthy cookbooks , exercise equipment , and pickleball accessories . Likewise , giving active gifts can show your friends that you care about their health too .
11 If You Lose a Point , Focus on the Next Shot
Enjoying yourself during the holiday season is one of life ’ s pleasures . If you give in to an unplanned indulgence , simply savor the moment . There ’ s lots of game left , and you can always drive your next shot right down the line . •
Spiced Pomegranate Apple Cider
Ingredients : ½ gallon fresh apple cider 1 cup pomegranate juice 1 orange , sliced in wheels 3 teaspoons whole cloves 3 cinnamon sticks
Directions :
Stir and simmer ingredients in a large pot on the stove for 30 minutes , just before guests arrive . Serve in mugs .
Very Cinnamon Yogurt Dip
Ingredients : 1½ cups plain Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup Dash of vanilla
Directions :
Mix all ingredients and serve with a platter of your favorite seasonal dipping fruit like sliced apples , oranges , and pears .
Brandi Givens has been a registered dietitian since 2010 . Questions or comments can be posted to her blog at brandigivensrd . com .

Brandi ’ s Kitchen

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023 | MAGAZINE 93