It is estimated that we can consume up to 6,000 calories on Christmas Day alone, which is enough to add a pound of fat in just one day.
NHS dietitians working for the community healthcare provider, Wiltshire Health and Care, know that the festive season can be a struggle for those watching their weight and so have shared their top tips for a healthy Christmas.
Rachel Cooke, a Wiltshire Health and Care dietitian, who offers advice to patients across Wiltshire, said:“With so much temptation around including mince pies, office chocolates and celebratory drinks, it is easy to consume more calories than normal without realising.
"But by being mindful, planning ahead and a little bit of will power, we can still enjoy all the festive treats which come with Christmas, without overdoing it.”
Top tips for a healthy Christmas
1. Be mindful
Plan ahead if you’re going to a festive gathering, by having smaller meals beforehand. Simply being aware of what you’re eating can make a big difference!
When shopping make a list of what you need and stick to it. With so much temptation it’s easy to over buy.
Sticking to what you need will help your waistline and your wallet.
2. Enjoy everything in moderation
Try to keep it to a 2-3 chocolates, rather than the whole box!When it comes to sausage rolls and mince pies at the office buffet, a smaller plate can help and focus on the healthier festive foods too.
3. Enjoy healthy alternatives
Satsuma’s are seasonal and high in vitamin C, and roast chestnuts are Christmassy and lower in fat than most nuts.
Dates, figs, skinless turkey, cranberries and a rainbow of festive vegetables are just some of the fantastic festive foods packed with flavour and nutrients.
If you can’t resist the mince pies try the open top ones with less pastry.
Homemade turkey soup or curry are great options for the leftovers.
4. Watch the liquid calories
Alcohol is packed with hidden calories. A pint of lager is similar to the calorific equivalent of a doughnut and cocktails are often full of sugar and cream, which can soon add up calorie wise.
Lower calorie options include using low calorie mixers with spirits, adding soda water to your white wine and alternating alcoholic drinks with soft drinks to prevent dehydration. Instead a Cosmopolitan made with vodka and unsweetened orange juice is a good option for a lower calorie cocktail.
Remember to reduce the size of those home measures we tend to go large!
5. Hit the dance floor
Dancing is a great way of burning calories and just remember to keep hydrated to maintain your moves.
6. Stay active
On the big day get out for a walk at some point.The more activity, the better, so take along any new outdoor gifts, like bikes, footballs or Frisbees.
7. If you do overeat don't think diet
Diets do not work long term; it’s all about making longer term lifestyle changes. Over the festive period don't try to make up for the extra calories by skipping meals. Instead, cut back throughout the day with a series of small meals packed with fruits and vegetables.
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