6 steps to enjoy Easter while managing weight

What comes to mind when you think of Easter? Would it be an Easter basket filled with high-calorie treats, and a meal of ham, buns, mashed potatoes, salads and desserts? Well, you can have both and lose or maintain your weight, too.

Follow these 6 simple steps:

1. Enjoy a healthy breakfast that includes lean protein.

Protein will help control your appetite. Consider these options:

• Veggie omelet
• Yogurt and fruit
• Fruit smoothie

2. Eat fruits or veggies for snacks.

3. Consider a lighter lunch, such as:

• A vegetable salad with lean protein, including a hard-boiled egg, chicken, tuna or cottage cheese
• Soup and half a sandwich
• Mixed fruit drizzled with yogurt or cottage cheese

4. Incorporate lower-calorie items into the main meal.

Eat a baked potato instead of mashed potatoes with butter and sour cream. Add steamed veggies and 4 to 6 ounces of ham. The whole idea is to swap high-calorie foods with low-calorie options.

5. Get active.

Go for a walk or play a game of basketball — just move. Remember, if you weigh 150 pounds, you have to walk a mile to burn off 1 ounce of chocolate.

6. Use portion control.

Have a small portion of those treats in the basket if you really want one. Remember, the operative goal is a small portion. Keep in mind:

• 1 ounce of chocolate = 150 calories
• Each marshmallow chick = 28 calories and all sugar
• 1 solid milk chocolate bunny = 900 calories
• 9 malted eggs = 200 calories

If the treats are tempting for you, you may want to get rid of the Easter basket on Monday. Remember, if it’s not there, you won’t eat it.

Get more tips on eating healthy, exercise and losing weight to help you achieve better health.

Eileen Dutter is a registered dietitian in Weight Management Services in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.