By Stephanie Russell, Accredited Practicing Dietitian
From family dinners, to work Christmas parties, the end of 2020 will bring many fun opportunities to eat, drink and be merry! But this does not have to be the end to your healthy eating nor put you off track from all your hard work this year.
Here are 3 tips that can keep you healthier this festive season:
- There’s nutrients all around. Many Christmas foods are actually healthy – The Christmas turkey/ham, roast vegetables and summer salads. So try to fill your plate up with these, which will leave less room for the other not-so-healthy food choices.
- Be careful of binging. Avoid skipping meals (e.g. breakfast or lunch) and going to parties hungry, just because you are worried you might over-do your calorie budget. It’s advantageous to have a light meal or snack prior to events instead to avoid feeling over-hungry and consuming excessive starters like dips and crackers before the main meal even starts.
- Listen to your body. Don’t let all the delicious foods make you lose touch with your hunger. It’s important to continue to listen to your body and hunger cues, and stop eating when you are satisfied. Can’t stand throwing food away? That’s okay, put it in a container for the next day.
Most importantly, food has a wonderful way of bringing people together. Whether your food is shared around a table of family and friends, discussed in detail over a Zoom call with loved ones afar, or you taking it to a new friend or neighbour, we hope it brings you joy most of all.
Stephanie works at the Bennelong Medical Clinic every second Friday. Call reception to make an appointment with her in the new year.