Although most of us are looking forward to the festive season there is always a concern about the possibility of weight gain during this time. This can be prevented by staying active and making healthy choices. Here are a few tips:
1. Stay positive. Try not to think that you are depriving yourself of foods you are not allowed to have, rather think of what you can add to the festive meal that is healthier.
Ø Strawberries, blueberries and cherries add colour to a festive table, whether savoury or sweet and are super healthy and low in calories.
Ø Fill up a cheese platter with vegetables such as cucumber, sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms and baby corn. Not only do these veggies add colour but are also very low in energy.
2. Choose your favourites and follow the 80/20 rule. Keep to healthy foods 80 percent of the time and indulge with your favourite options on special occasions.
3. Remember to stay hydrated. Make sure you drink between 6 – 8 glasses of water. Get to 8 glasses of water before a late afternoon or evening party. This will help you not to overindulge with drinks and food.
4. Don’t arrive hungrily. Having a bowl of soup or salad before you go to a party will help you to snack less and have smaller portions.
5. Moderation is key. If you want to try everything, keep the portions small.
6. Fill half your plate with healthy salad or vegetables. Not sure if vegetables will be on the menu? Offer to bring a salad or vegetable dish to a party.
7. Take a 10-minute break before having seconds. It may take a bit of time for you to realize that you had enough. Eat slowly and wait a little bit before having seconds.
8. Don’t leave out exercise! Exercise will help to control your appetite and stress levels! It will also help to use up more calories.
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