The festive season is upon us and for most of us that means eating delicious meals paired with luxuriant alcohol, often in larger quantities. With daily opportunities to tuck into rich and decadent foods, it’s unsurprising that come New Year, many of us struggle to fit into our jeans. On average Australians gain 0.8-1.5kg over the Christmas period.
Are you looking to avoid piling on the kilo’s this season? If so, here are some tips to help you maintain your weight over the festive season.
- Avoid going hungry to parties. Eat something light before you head out to reduce your chances of snacking on high calorie party food. Healthy snacks options include a tub of yoghurt, ½ banana, boiled eggs, a small bowl of oats and veggie sticks with dips (hummus, beetroot, avocado dip).
- Don’t try to lose weight over the Christmas season. Instead, aim to maintain your current weight.
- Watch your portion sizes. Put smaller portions of food on your plate and go back after 20 minutes if you want more- 20 minutes is the time it takes your brain to register that you’re full. Alternatively, use an entree plate instead of a dinner plate. That way you are sure to eat less.
- Fill up with foods from the BOTTOM layer of the Healthy Living Pyramid. These foods include vegetables, fruit and whole grain cereals. Avoid consuming fatty, rich meals, creamy sauces or meals that are laden with sugar (these often leave you feeling queasy and bloated afterwards anyway).
- Don’t keep temptations around the house. It’s difficult enough navigating the office and the parties. If every time you open the refrigerator you stare down at your favorite treat, there’s a good chance you’ll crack. Keep the treats for special occasions only!
- Don’t shop hungry. This is old, but good advice nonetheless. If you go to the grocery store hungry, you are far more likely to cave in to temptation and bring home foods that will tempt you to go astray. Stick to a shopping list to avoid impulse purchases.
These simple strategies ensure that you still have fun over the festive season, whilst also looking after your health and wellbeing!
If you’re after additional food and nutritional alternatives leading up to the silly season, book an appointment with our Naturopath, Julia.Available for consultation on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and alternate Saturdays.