Holiday Hosting For Low-Carb, Low-Fat Guests

Denice Ferko-Adams knows how to throw a party. She's a registered dietitian who loves to entertain.

"It's important that the host or hostess would ask their guests if they have any dietary needs," she said.

Armed with abundant information, you can start making your grocery list.

"I like to focus on lean meats, like chicken, turkey, pork, beef, any lean cuts are fine," said Ferko-Adams.

Those lean cuts of meat work for both a low-fat and a low-carb diet. Seafood can also work for both.

"Shrimp or salmon are good choices because they're very high in omega-3 fatty acids and most Americans aren't eating enough of them," said Ferko-Adams.

Don't forget the veggies paired with low fat dips you can whip up with the help of low fat sour cream or yogurt. And try to mix it up when it comes to crackers and breads for the carb-conscious.

"I like to serve the flat breads because most of them have no fat at all and there's a wide range of whole grain choices that you can pick from. They're adding just a few calories and I think some of the low-carb guest may find them a nice change of pace," said Ferko-Adams

You have to set the pace, in terms of what you pick and how much of it you eat, so heed Denice's last piece of holiday advice.

"The old adage used to be 'eat, drink and be merry,' the new holiday rule is 'eat, drink and be wary,'" she said.

The holiday season doesn't have to spell disaster for your diet.

Dieters also need to be mindful of holiday cocktails. Denice says if you chose to drink, dry white or red wine is your best bet. But be very aware of how large your glass is and what portion you pour. We often want to fill our glasses to the brim, no matter how big, and one “serving” should only include 4 or 5-ounces of your favorite beverage.

If you're looking for recipes, check out Denice's website at http://www.wellnesspress.com.

For general information and healthy eating/drinking tips:American Dietetic Association, http://www.eatright.orgU.S. Department Of Health And Human Services, Prevention Online,http://www.health.org