Pre Party Eating

This is the season for parties - from office to home invites. The problem is that they start late - which is not good for those of us who like an early meal. Can we wait til eight or dine at nine? If we do , it's usually results in an attack on the hors d'ouevres or worse the booze. Both on an empty stomach can be hellish later on. What to do? Pre eat.

If you know you're going to party , then eat accordingly. It doesn't pay to snack through the afternoon and eveningon snacky kind of foods like chips and candy. (besides you don't want to when you're getting ready anyway - too messy). Your best bet is a light broth or even a Ramen soup. Both are light yet filling enough to sustain you until the festivites begin. Have them with crackers or Oysterettes. You could also have cheese such as Brie as a side This will give you some protein . This way you can nibble through the evening, having eaten something relatively substantial.

Another good idea is just a plain sandwich. Stick with a simple roast beef, chicken or turkey on white or whole wheat bread. If you want just add butter or mayo for some more taste. Some nutritionists recommend peanut butter which again is good. You can make a sandwich or have it with celery , bread sticks or on crackers . A healthy pre party snack are apple slices smeared with peanut butter.Another idea is eating a small fresh salad with a low calorie dressing or just fresh veggies with a dip. These are both good and light. Cut up apples and pears also are perfect foods to snack on as well. Again have with a light tea, gingerale or even water.

Eating late at a party is no big deal if you've already had something at your normal dinner time. Don't go overboard.Something light and filling with do the trick before tackling all those platters of goodies.