Avoid over indulging this Christmas and prevent the need to loosen your belt with these strategies:
Dodge those nibbles…
- Go for vegetable-based hors d’oeuvres. These are likely to be lower in energy and a better source of nutrition.
- View all that is on offer. That way you can make an informed choice on which one or two foods you really want to try.
- Depending on how big the canapés are, decide how many you think you will need before you start eating. Then keep a toothpick or napkin from each to keep track of your food intake.
Beware of the booze…
HAVING wine, beer and cocktails at every party or gathering is an easy way to drink extra calories. When we drink, we are also much more likely to nibble on foods unconsciously. Being careful with your alcohol intake is one of the simplest ways to avoid a Christmas “pud”.
- Map out the social events and prioritise the events at which you want to drink alcohol and the ones you don’t.
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with something low calorie that will hit the bubbly beverage spot. Try an infused mineral water, which contains no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
- Put your non-alcoholic beverage in a nice glass. You may be surprised that the act of drinking out of a wine glass acts as an effective substitute for wine.
Enjoy the delicacies, but…
CHRISTMAS foods are special because we only have them once a year. Enjoy these foods by tasting and savoring every mouthful, not by over eating.
- Take a couple of deep breaths before you eat. This can help you to be present to enjoy the food mindfully.
- Put the knife and fork down between mouthfuls. Wait until you have finished one morsel before getting the next one ready.
Freshen it up…
FIND balance by pairing special Christmas foods with fresh fruits or vegetables. You are more likely to feel satisfied and you boost the nutrition of an otherwise empty calorie snack.
- Try to make half of the plate vegetables at all your Christmas meals.
- Take a plate of fresh fruit and vegetables to Christmas morning teas and barbecues.
- Add a side of vegetables when dining out.
Get back to routine…
IT’S easy for the holiday eating and drinking to roll into the New Year. But the sooner you get back to your usual pattern of eating, the lower the chances of Christmas kilos hanging around.
- Save food gifts for special occasions later in the year rather than trying to “get rid of them” by overindulging.
- Plan meals between Christmas and New Year that can be strategic with using up leftovers.
- Refocus on your fitness goals and getting into an exercise routine.
Most importantly, go into Christmas with a clear (and realistic) idea of how you want to come out the other side. The key is to make conscious decisions so that you can regret nothing.
Clare Wolski is a practising dietitian at The Healthy Eating Hub, call 6174 4663. healthyeatinghub.
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