9 ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day without ditching your weight-loss goals

So you can stay on track—and in the spirit!
Published March 3, 2016

These 9 tips will help you enjoy the day without racking up over-the-rainbow Points® values.

1. Join the fun.

Instead of sitting on the sidelines, march in the parade! Either join a group that's walking or march to your own beat.

2. Play games with green.

Start your own tradition: Every time someone around you mentions green, tack on an additional push-up or an extra minute of cardio to the next day's workout.

3. Look for leprechauns.

Taking a hike in the spring weather can be an excellent way to see some natural greens. Pack a lunch and hit the trails.

4. Swap green beer for green tea.

Besides all of the added health benefits, drinking green tea puts you in your own holiday spirit — a relaxed one.

5. Make a festive plate.

Celebrate by eating all the verdant veggies you can get your hands on: spinach, broccoli, green beans, lettuce.

6. Go in search of luck.

Weather permitting, get outside and into the grass to hunt for four-leaf clovers.

7. Throw a party.

Invite friends to your place and require that each bring a healthy dish. With you in control of the food and the drink, it won't take any luck to get you through the holiday.

8. Keep things fun.

Use green food-coloring to make healthy and festive snacks for you or your kids. Low-Points green milkshakes, anyone?

9. Forge a path to your pot of gold.

Write your accomplishments on slips of paper and keep them together in a little black pot. One day, that pot of success will make you feel rich.

RELATED: 7 classic St. Patrick's Day recipes