Balance is the key! During the summer season, everyone is more festive. There are office parties, Christmas celebrations, get-togethers with loved ones followed by summer vacations and Australia Day. Needless to say, this means that we also treat ourselves to BBQs, alcohol, snacks and other tasty treats that are not so healthy.
To make matters worse, our very busy lifestyles in many instances cause us to stress and forget about our routine. This could mean that we exercise less or eat more unhealthy food.
To guarantee that you will still have a fantastic Christmas and festive season without neglecting your health, be sure to implement these top tips. At the end of the day you can lead a balanced life and enjoy yourself at the same time!
Make healthier mealtime choices
Breakfast is typically not a big event on the social calendar compared to lunch and dinner. So, this is the ideal time to opt for healthier choices. The following practical tips will help you to make sure that your day is off to a super start:
- As prepackaged cereals often have a very high sugar content, it is best to skip these.
- Fried eggs, bacon and sausages are high in fat. A healthier alternative is to opt for poached eggs instead.
- Try to eat fresh fruit like berries, bananas with oats or plain yoghurt. For a special healthy treat, you can add nuts, almonds, sunflower seeds and/or linseed.
When it is time for lunch or dinner, you can:
- Load up on veggies! Vegetables are rich in nutrients and about half of your plate can consist of salad or vegetables.
- If you can, avoid creamy sauces altogether. If the temptation is too great, you can add them to the side instead. This way you have much better control over how much you consume.
- Not only is sharing caring, but it is much better for your health too. You can have your cake and eat it too (just try to share it or opt for a smaller main). After all, smaller portions are much better for your health as your body only registers that you are full twenty minutes after you have eaten.
Limit your alcohol intake
There is nothing wrong with enjoying a drink or two. Just stick to these tips:
- Do not drink alcohol on an empty stomach. Remember first to eat before you drink. Not only will it help to limit alcohol’s effect on your body, but it will also help you to drink less. After all, who likes hangovers the next day?
- Moderation is key. The rule of thumb is that for every alcoholic drink, you should drink a glass of water too.
- If you like mixed drinks, opt for mineral water or soda that has less sugar and additives.
- If you like cocktails, order those that are soda-based instead of cream-based. Also, try to avoid cocktails loaded with sugar syrup.
- Being designated driver doesn’t have to be a punishment. Your friends and body will thank you!
Drink more water
In many instances we are actually thirsty when we think that we are hungry. So, by drinking more water you can feel fuller for longer which will help you to eat less.
Enjoy light snacks too
It is important that you eat regularly. So, if you feel that you are hungry before lunch or dinner, it is actually a good idea to enjoy a small snack.
Take it slow and steady
At the end of the day, you get to decide what you want to eat and drink. Whether it is brunch with the folks or dinner with your mates, you remain in control of your food choices.
Apply the 80/20 rule
If you eat healthy 80% of the time, you can indulge 20% of the time without running the risk of detrimental effects. This means that when you can, make the healthier choices so that you can enjoy some treats during the festive season guilt-free.
Exercise
If you know that you will be eating more and less healthy than usual, it is a good idea to be proactive by exercising more. Luckily the weather is great this time of the year! How about a quick volleyball match on the beach followed by a quick swim?
The Brisbane Naturopath team would like to wish you and your loved ones a happy festive season and great health in the year to come
