6 Tips to a Healthier Christmas

1. No guilt – it’s your choice

There is no need to avoid (or go to) all celebrations and socialising – you deserve to have some fun as you’ve earned it, however it’s also been a big year. So, listen to your body. Enjoy socialising without feeling guilty and implement some of the strategies below to help you get through without going totally off the wagon.

2. Pace yourself

Regardless, if you’re having breakfast, lunch, dinner or nibbles out or with friends or family, always remember – You choose what you eat and drink! You are in control!

3. Nutrition

Drink more water – This is a great trick to keep you full and eating in moderation. Did you know that we are often thirsty when we think we are hungry? All the more reason to drink more water and you’ll find it easier to resist some of the more indulgent morsels this season.

Smaller Portions – Put smaller portions of food on your plate and go back after 20 minutes if you still want more. It takes that long for your brain to register that you’re full. So don’t stuff yourself silly because you’ll feel like Santa afterwards.

Eat regularly throughout the day – Have a light snack before dinner or lunch if you’re hungry. That way you won’t gorge yourself on unhealthy foods. We often make poor food choices when we’re starving, have you ever done the groceries when you’re famished? You usually end up with a whole lot of junk food that you usually wouldn’t eat.

Breakfast is a great time to eat well, as we usually don’t socialize as much over breakfast as we do other meals. Regardless, here are some healthy choices that will give you a great start to the day.

• Avoid fatty, rich meals like bacon and sausages and have poached eggs rather than fried
• Avoid sugar-laden foods like pre-packaged cereals
• Eat fresh fruit (berries are my favourite) with Greek or coconut yoghurt, and paleo granola, or add LSA (linseed, sunflower seeds and almonds)

Lunch & Dinner

• Aim for half of your plate being low starch veggies or salad. It will fill you up with wonderfully healthy nutrient dense food. Make a quarter of your plate a lean protein (fish, chicken, meat, legumes or tempeh) and quarter starchy veggies or whole grains (eg brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat noodles).
• Skip the creamy sauces, you often feel queasy after them anyway. Instead have your dressings or sauces on the side and then you can add a little if you want it.
• Ordering dessert? Have an entrée-sized main to keep room for dessert and share it so that you can get your fix and keep it in moderation.

Alcohol

Enjoy a few drinks if you enjoy a drink or two. You’ve earned it but heed these tips:

• Drink in moderation. Have a glass of water for every alcoholic drink.
• Add soda or mineral water as a mixer. There’s far less sugar and additives whilst you can still enjoy your mixed dinks.
• Avoid cocktails with lots of cream or sugar syrup in them. Instead opt for fruit or mineral water-based options.
• Volunteer to be the designated driver, then you have to avoid temptation. Your body and your friends will love you for it.
• Eat something and drink water before you drink alcohol. It will reduce the effect and the amount of alcohol you consume. You’ll be thankful the next day when you don’t have a killer hangover.

4. Exercise

If you’re overeating and drinking more alcohol than usual without exercising, you’re going to put on weight! It’s not rocket science! Whilst everyone loves relaxing and indulging at this time of year, partaking in regular physical activity is a great way to keep those extra kg’s from creeping on. And what better excuse to get out and take advantage of the great weather.

• Organise picnics or BBQ’s where cricket, tennis, football or volleyball are included in the activities. It’s great to get outdoors and it’s a wonderful way to bond with your family and friends while doing your body a favour. It will also boost your vitamin D levels (ensure that you are sun smart).
• Go for daily walks especially if you’re away. Go exploring and enjoy the scenery.
• Swimming is awesome for the body, whether you are at the beach, local pool or in the backyard pool.

5. The 80/20 Rule

Remember this rule! If you’re good 80% of the time you can afford to indulge 20% of the time. So, remember to do all the right things when you can and enjoy some indulgences over this period without compromising your healthy lifestyle too much!

6. Nutrients

Don’t forget to take your regular nutrients like multivitamins and probiotics. These are even more important during this period especially when you may be overindulging. There’s no reason why you can’t enjoy the festive season whilst still looking after yourself.

Adopt these easy strategies to get the most out of your summer –  have fun, relax and unwind!

We wish you and your families a healthy and happy festive season.