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NOT overindulging W
hen it comes to Christmas and New year, we are so used to over indulgence of food and drink, that we just go with the flow of it and aim to magically fix it all in January with a resolution or several… But, we can still enjoy festivities and be healthy – think of it as a prevention over cure strategy because let’s face it, none of us like that bloated, lethargic feeling, not to mention that pressure to get rid of a few pounds. Reduce Animal Produce: There are plenty of health reasons to cut down on animal produce – Christmas time sees us eating heaps of dairy products as well as meats, so consider switching out the honey glazed ham for a cranberry nutroast. Many supermarkets offer a good variety of nut-roasts now, that you just shove in the oven, just in case you don’t fancy adding that to your list of things to prep and cook. Another way to cut down on animal produce, is by replacing the creams and custards for nondiary alternatives that have less of the hormones and fat, but taste just as good. Snooze Button on the Booze: Too much alcohol not only piles on the pounds, but leads to a fuzzy head and other effects, such as skin break outs, hangovers and even reliance. So how do we pace alcohol consumption, whilst still enjoying its benefits?
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Wine: Try half a glass of a good quality red wine or a nice mug of spiced mulled wine; instead of aiming to finish the bottle save some for another day. And no sneaky glass while prepping the food!
Opt for the mocktail
Spirits: Leave the spirit stones in the freezer and return to the ice-cubes. Having your spirits on the icy rocks waters the beverage down. Ales, Beers & Lager: Know your limits, and enjoy the experience of drinking without the aim of getting smashed. Switching to half pints can help you slow your roll. Cocktails: Have a couple of your favourites and then opt for the mocktail version, or if you prefer, alternate the virgin version with the loaded drink. Other Sparkling Drinks: Champagne, Prosecco, and other sparking drinks can get sickly after a while anyway – so have one or two to celebrate then switch to a sparkling water, lime and soda or even go for a wine spritzer.
Personal Trainer and Sports Scientist Marc Dressen says, “Foods which have ample stores of fibre in them are excellent deterrents from overindulging. They make you feel nice and full and if chosen cleverly will also mean you won’t be consuming extra unwanted calories. Fruit and vegetables are the obvious choices, and they also boost your body with essential vitamins and minerals. When you top up on fibre your body produces more insulin, which will help meltdown fats and sugars you happen to eat on those festive occasions. So even if you happen to be a bit naughty at Christmas you’ll still manage to keep added inches off your waistline.” It is a good idea to have small meals as you usually would before a party or dinner, so that you don’t binge in one sitting. And whilst it is tempting to hover around the buffet table even though you are full to the brim, choose to stand away from those temptations – you’ll be glad you did in the long run.
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