Top Tips for Success During the Festive Season

By author photo Jessica Percic, Dietitian

holiday

Tips for staying healthy over the festive season

Portions

Fill ½ of your plate with non-starchy vegetables, ¼ with a serving of meat or meat alternatives and the remaining ¼ with grains or starchy vegetables.

Being mindful and eating thoughtfully can help you to make healthier choices—and remember, it’s okay to say ‘no, thank you’.

Physical activity

Plan some time each day for physical activity—why not get the whole family involved too!

Play a ball game, like bocce or cricket after your Christmas main meal, or go for a stroll and see all the Christmas lights in your neighbourhood.

 

Alcohol

Avoiding alcohol? Make your drink a little fancier with a mocktail or diet soft drink in a wine glass.

If you do decide to consume alcohol, set a limit and stick to it. Reduce the amount of alcohol you’re having in each glass—try white wine spritzers (1/2 wine, 1/2 plain mineral water or soda water) or a shandy (1/2 beer, 1/2 diet lemonade).

 

Eat before the event

Snack on something high in fibre or protein such as an apple or fat free plain Greek yogurt to help fill you up before arriving at a party. This way you are less likely to overeat and can focus on enjoying the company

 

Don’t skip meals

You may be tempted to skip a meal to compensate for larger meals but you may end up eating more because you feel so hungry It is easier to stick to smaller portions if you keep up your regular meal pattern.

 

Plan for social situations

You can still enjoy social events or staying on track with your goals. it just takes a little pre planning when going to a festive party offer to bring a vegetable platter, so you’ll have some healthy options to munch on.

 

get started on your weight loss journey today

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