I am definitely not about to ruin the fun that is Christmas Day, but I know that for some people Christmas can be a time to pile on the weight; it’s so easy to get carried away with all the chocolates, drinks and treats that are available. If you’re worried about putting on extra weight there are ways you can still enjoy Christmas and the treats without overindulging and ending up feeling guilty a few days later.
So here goes, top tips:
- Make sure you have breakfast to start you off the right way on Christmas morning
- Have healthy options laid out to pick at instead of the chocolates and sweeties. You could try having nuts, fruit, crackers or breadsticks readily available around the house
- Don’t linger at buffet tables – it will only make you more likely to graze and overeat
- At dinner fill half your plate with vegetables leaving only half for meat and potatoes
- Try offering some fruit based puddings as well as more traditional options such as apple crumble or fruit tart
- Avoid grazing whilst cooking by making sure you don’t start cooking on an empty stomach and have a glass of water ready for every time you fancy a nibble
- Keep hydrated throughout the day and try and opt for tea, coffee and water rather than sugary drinks where possible
- If drinking alcohol try to have a glass of water between each alcoholic drink
- Add lemon, lime or other fruits to water to make it a more ‘exotic’ drink
- Be careful with sauces such as gravy and cranberry sauce; these can be very calorific and high in sugar and salt
- Use up leftovers during the next few days and don’t feel as if you have to finish your plate or eat everything up on Christmas day. Why not pack leftovers up for family or have a second Christmas meal the next day?
- If you’re really struggling with excess treats after Christmas give chocolates, cakes or cookies away to friends or family so you don’t have to have them in the house
- But most importantly, don’t restrict yourself completely– life is about quality so enjoy it, whilst still being mindful of your health!