By Damilola Adeleke
Christmas, while it’s a time to indulge and celebrate, it’s also easy to overeat and pack on some extra pounds.
But don’t worry; you can enjoy all the festivities and still maintain a healthy balance. A little planning and effort can go a long way in helping you feel your best during and after the holidays.
Here are five tips to help you avoid weight gain this Christmas.
Practice Portion Control
We all know how tempting it is to fill your plate with every dish on the table during holiday feasts. The key is to enjoy the variety without overdoing it. Start with smaller servings and savour each bite—you can always go back for seconds if you’re still hungry.
You can also use a smaller plate to naturally limit portions. Your brain will still register a “full plate” and you’ll feel satisfied without overeating.
Stay Active
Between family dinners and holiday parties, it’s easy to skip exercise, but staying active is essential. A little movement each day can make a big difference.
You can go for a walk after meals, play an outdoor game with your kids or friends or turn up the music and dance while decorating the tree or wrapping gifts.
Limit Sugary Drinks and Alcohol
Festive drinks like cocktails and sugary sodas can add up in calories faster than you think. While it’s fine to treat yourself, try to balance it out.
Try to drink water or herbal tea between indulgent drinks or choose lighter options, like sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice or dry wine instead of sugary cocktails. Staying hydrated with water also helps you feel full, making it easier to resist overindulging.
Snack Wisely
Christmas snacks are everywhere—cookies, chocolates, chips, you name it. Rather than munching on them all day, plan your snacks to avoid mindless eating.
Keep healthy options like nuts, yogurt, or sliced fruits on hand and if you want a treat, portion it out instead of eating straight from the package. Before heading to a holiday party, eat a small, healthy snack at home. This way, you won’t arrive starving and overindulge on high-calorie treats.
Plan Your Indulgences
The holidays wouldn’t be complete without enjoying your favourite festive foods, but moderation is key. Decide which treats mean the most to you and indulge mindfully. Eat slowly and enjoy every bite. You’ll feel more satisfied and less likely to reach for seconds.
Adeleke Damilola (ACTION) is a versatile content writer with expertise in news writing and a seasoned media professional and broadcast specialist. Currently serving as News Editor for DNews Info, Damilola is also the CEO of the ACTION brand, committed to shaping lives and establishing a legacy of excellence for present and future generations.
Discover more from DnewsInfo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.