Valentine's Day Doesn't Have to Be the Death of Your Diet!

Valentine's Day might be known for sweet, indulgent treats, but it doesn't mean this one day has to blow your dedication to your diet. Here are three ways to enjoy a treat with your Valentine while sticking with your plan.

1. Request a treat that's something besides food.
Is there a nice way to tell your special someone that you'd rather have a non-food Valentine's gift? Years ago I started asking my husband for a potted flower that I could keep on the window sill or plant in the garden. Potted herbs are also a great idea! I love getting these gifts because I can enjoy them for months (or years) to come. Plus they're easier on the pocketbook than a dozen Valentine's Day roses!

2. Make a healthier dessert.
One of my favorite Valentine's-themed desserts is strawberry shortcake. So delicious and it couldn't be easier to make! Buy the shortcake dessert shells at the supermarket, some strawberries and light whipped cream. When the berries are nice and ripe, slice them straight across (they look like hearts) and sprinkle them with a tablespoon of sugar or Splenda, if you prefer. Stir gently and refrigerate for at least an hour. When dessert time comes, spoon the berries into the dessert shells and top with a dollop of whipped cream. Yuuummmy.

3. Go for it--just in a limited quantity.
Restaurants and many grocers or specialty dessert shops sell desserts in a single serving. Buy one piece of your favorite dessert, maybe chocolate cake, to indulge in on Valentine's Day. I know it usually costs the same amount to buy nearly the whole cake, but the overwhelming point is: you don't have the whole cake leftover to eat.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Photo credit: Heart Apple by Clare Bloomfield