MANHATTAN, Kan. -- Holiday parties and events can fill the calendar quickly, but shouldn't be an excuse for skipping a meal, a Kansas State University specialist said.

"Planning a light snack in lieu of a regular meal before a party lessens the likelihood party goers will go overboard on party foods that often are higher in calories and fat," said Sandy Procter, K-State Research and Extension nutrition specialist.

Offering food at regular meal and snack times also is important for children, she said.

“Children have small stomachs and need regularly scheduled meals and snacks to provide energy for growth, development and holiday events,” Procter said. 

“Working to maintain a meal schedule, as well as regular snacks and bed times, can help a child succeed during the hustle of the season, and may also help ward off illness, too.”

Eat now or later?

“Consider both, in moderation,” Procter said.

Sandy Procter is a registered dietitian and state coordinator for the United States Department of Agriculture's Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program.

More information about food, nutrition and family meals is available at county and district Extension offices and on Extension Web sites, including: www.ksre.ksu.edu, www.ksre.ksu.edu/humannutrition, www.kidsacookin.org, www.ksre.ksu.edu/foodsafety/.

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