Guilt Free Christmas Eating
This post was originally published in the NZ Plumber Dec-Jan 2022/23 issue. Kelly trained and worked as a Registered Dietitian prior to the business and is passionate about creating healthy work environments in the Trade Industry.
The information in this blog is not intended to replace advice and information given to you by medical professionals. This blog cannot provide readers with all the information necessary to diagnose and treat a medical condition or nutrition problem. Those who are unwell or have concerns should always seeks advice from their GP.
One day of ‘Christmas eating’ isn’t going to be the end to my waistline… right?
It’s true. One day of overeating isn't going to do too much harm but- and you may already be experiencing this- Christmas these days is more like Christmas “month”! Social occasions start adding up from the1st Dec and belt notches soon loosen. However, these 5 simple tricks will help you enjoy this holiday season guilt free.
1. Start the day the right way
Breakfast kickstarts your day and prevents unnecessary grazing later on. Some favourites include:
Wholegrain toast with: eggs & spinach/peanut butter & sliced banana/ cottage cheese & avocado or sliced tomato
Greek yoghurt with fresh fruit & natural muesli
Oats or Weet-bix with fruit/nuts/seeds & low-fat milk
2. Move more, sit less
The holidays are a great time to start getting into shape. Find something you enjoy so you continue to exercise once normality kicks back in. Upping the unplanned exercise is equally important for ‘moving’. Walk more, take the stairs, park further away, and start the habit of standing whenever you are on the phone.
3. Plan ahead
If you are out and about this holiday plan to take nutrient-rich snacks to avoid continual reliance on fast-food outlets. Some great options include:
Fruit
Mixed nuts (aim for unsalted)
Cheese and crackers
Veggie sticks with hummus/cottage cheese
Greek yoghurt with fruit/nuts/seeds
Plain popcorn
4. Mindful eating
What you eat is only half the story. How you eat also plays a role. Mindful eaters- those who eat when hungry, stop when full, eat slowly, eat distraction free, and enjoy their food- tend to have lower body weights, greater sense of well-being, and less likely to feel guilty with their eating.
5. Re-think your drink
Drinking your calories is a ticket to weight gain. Avoid tight work gear next year by:
Keeping hydrated (water) throughout the day
When drinking, alternating your alcoholic drinks with water (1:1)
Plan some alcohol-free days
Try ¼ juice to ¾ soda water for a lower sugar fizz drink
I found the article very well written and easy to follow. I appreciated the clarity with which the data and information are presented. I appreciated being able to find all this information in one place. It is not easy to find information so complete and well presented on this topic.
The article raises important points about mindful eating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle during festive times. While one can indulge occasionally, it reveals the broader implications of continuous overindulgence throughout the month. The concept of "Highroller" eating—where excessive decedent meals become the norm—could be detrimental, pushing us away from sustainable health habits. Balancing joy with nutrition is essential.
The approach to holiday eating outlined here highlights important aspects of maintaining a healthy balance during festive times. It's interesting how mindful eating contributes significantly to overall well-being and weight management. The idea of combining physical activity with enjoyment can transform one's relationship with food. The mention of Spinbet illustrates how integrating small changes can lead to sustainable habits in the long run.
The insights shared about mindful eating and healthy choices during the holidays are valuable. Reflecting on the balance between enjoyment and nutrition, it's clear that the approach taken here addresses the complexities of modern festive eating. Particularly interesting is the notion that Imperial Wins when individuals are conscious of their food choices and mindful practices, contributing to long-term well-being. It's a reminder that habits formed during the holidays can have lasting effects.