Maintaining a healthy weight during the Xmas holiday period can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can implement to help you ensure that you don’t show up 7 kg heavier in the new year. Here are five simple things you can do:
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Eating Sensibly:
- Be conscious of what and how much you're eating. Pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues and do not keep eating just because there is extra food in front of you.
- Chew your food slowly and take the time to appreciate the taste of the foods you are eating. If you can afford it, go for quality over quantity. Treat yourself to a smaller quantity of the more expensive meat, cheese, chocolate, etc. and enjoy the taste.
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Staying Physically Active:
- Incorporate physical activity into your holiday routine. Take a walk after meals or engage in fun, active holiday activities with friends and family.
- Try to stick to at least some part of your regular exercise routine. Don’t abandon gym sessions altogether over December and pretend you are too busy.
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Portion Control:
- Be mindful of portion sizes, especially when faced with a variety of tempting holiday treats.
- Make sensible choices, a plate of turkey/ham and salads is delicious, nutritious and doesn’t contain that many calories.
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Staying Hydrated:
- December/January in Australia is usually on the warm side of things so make the effort to consume plenty of water.
- Limit sugary drinks and alcohol, as they can contribute to excess calorie intake and make you feel sluggish.
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Plan and Prioritize:
- Plan your meals and snacks in advance the same way that you would during the rest of the year. Do your usual food preparation, then stick to it.
- Prioritize healthier food options, such as lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Pavlova, pudding and a few Xmas drinks with family can still be enjoyed in moderation.
You can still enjoy the holiday season without compromising your fitness goals. It's okay to indulge occasionally, just don’t let all of your healthy habits go out the window because it’s Xmas.