Avoid overindulging this festive season!
Whether our meal plan disappears with Santa’s reindeer or we simply don’t find the time to exercise, it’s certainly the season to let things slide! That being said, you can make the choice to do the festive season in a healthier way, without suffering from any FOMO!
Here are some smart tips that will assist you with avoiding the post-Christmas feast regret.
Be a healthy host!
If you are the one preparing the feast, be creative and try to include interesting vegetables or fruits in your appetizers. You do not have to provide sugary or fatty munchies in order to wow your guests. Nutritionists advise you to fill at least half the plate with vegetables, so make sure that you have a range for your guests to choose from. When planning your main meal, swap the chicken out for turkey. Turkey contains fewer calories and moderately more protein than chicken. It also has less cholesterol, less sodium and more iron, making it a delicious and healthy alternative for your dinner table.
Keep fuel in your tank.
‘Saving space for later’ and hoarding calories in preparation for the Christmas buffet is not going to make a difference, other than to make you over indulge. Rather start your day off with a healthy breakfast to keep the hunger at bay and stablise your sugar levels. This way, your body remains fueled during the course of the morning and by the time you get to the festive supper table, you’ll be hungry but not ravenous and actually be able to enjoy your meal without simply eating for the sake of it.
Be Selective.
If your family is anything like ours, the selection at the dinner table is usually huge and mouth wateringly good. Instead of eating a bit of everything and piling your plate, choose your favourite things and take the time to savour them. We know this can be a tough decision and you certainly don’t want to offend Gogo, but your waistline will thank you for restraint! We are also not going to tell you to put down the treats, but bear in mind that you don’t need to force down a second helping of pudding to feel satisfied. Be mindful with each plate you consume and you’ll find yourself feeling satisfied without splurging.
Watch your portion sizes. Stuffing yourself with more food than you usually consume can leave your feeling lethargic, as well as increasing your chances of indigestion and bloating. Pace yourself and stop when you’re full. It’s all about balance versus binging.
Stay Hydrated.
We know it's time to put on your party pants and let your hair down, but wine and beer do not count as staying hydrated! Alcoholic drinks carry a high calorie count so try to remain aware of how much booze you are consuming. Not only is a hangover a horrible way to spend your time off, but it is also not really conducive to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Drink plenty of water during the day and in between your boozy beverages to keep your body feeling healthy. Drinking two big glasses of water before meals will also curb your appetite so you don’t over indulge on Christmas pud.
It’s about being festive, not about food.
We know that we’re led to believe ‘tis the season of snacks, but it isn’t really. It’s the season of love and friends and family. Rather than placing your focus on sweets, snacks and seats, try to focus on spending time with family and friends rather than just eating and drinking. Instead of sitting at the table for hours or hanging around by the snack table, engage your family in a fun activity that gets everyone moving and keeps them busy, distracting you from the urge to eat too much.
Whilst most people like to throw caution to the wind each December, remember that it’s not a case of all or nothing at Christmas when it comes to your diet. You are likely to feel better about yourself (and dread January less) if you just remain mindful of what you’re consuming. On the flip side, there’s no need to deprive yourself – it is perfectly possible to indulge in some naughty festive treats without losing all control over your eating and drinking.
As a Body20 Member, you have access to the Nutrition Doctor who will devise a personalized eating plan for the festive season and the entire year!
Book a free demo at your nearest Body20 Studio on our website to start your personalized and holistic fitness journey.
