9 Simple Holiday Tips to Enjoy the Festivities Without Packing on the Pounds

The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and indulging in festive treats. With a few smart strategies, you can enjoy your favourite dishes without worrying about post-holiday weight gain. Here’s how:

1) Aim for a healthy plate

Think of your plate as a pie chart: fill ½ with vegetables, ¼ with lean protein, and ¼ with carbs. Why? Vegetables are low in calories (just 18 calories for two handfuls of salad without dressing!) and packed with vitamins and minerals. Carbs, on the other hand, tend to be calorie-dense, so keeping portions in check is key.

2) Eat in the right order

Start with vegetables, move on to lean proteins, and save carbs and desserts for last. Why does this work? Leafy greens fill you up faster, helping to prevent overeating. Plus, prioritising veggies and protein ensures you’re getting a nutrient-packed meal before indulging in calorie-heavy options.

3) Stay hydrated

If you still feel hungry after finishing your first plate, drink a glass of water before going for seconds. Staying hydrated helps you feel fuller and pace yourself, so you can savour the meal without overdoing it.

4) Skip the sauces and creams

Gravies, creams, and salad dressings can sneak in a lot of extra calories. Use them sparingly or skip them altogether to let the natural flavours of your food shine.

5) Pick just one treat

Sweet drinks, alcoholic beverages, snacks, and desserts can quickly add up. Choose one indulgence per meal. For example, if you’re having a cocktail, skip dessert. Craving roasted potatoes? Pass on the beer. This approach helps you stay within your “calorie budget” while still enjoying what you love most.

6) Balance feasts with lighter meals

Holiday feasts are meant to be enjoyed, but balance them out with light, low-carb meals like salads or fruit before and after. This way, you stay on track without feeling guilty about indulging.

7) Don’t arrive hungry

Turning up to a party on an empty stomach often leads to overeating. Instead, have a small, clean meal like a salad or fruit earlier in the day. You’ll feel more in control and less tempted to overindulge.

8) Lighten up your drinks

If you’re drinking alcohol, opt for low-calorie mixers like soda water, diet soft drinks, or water. A glass of water between alcoholic drinks can help pace your consumption and reduce unnecessary calorie intake.

9) Get moving before and after your gatherings

Burn off those festive calories by squeezing in some exercise before or after your celebrations. A brisk 30-minute walk can make all the difference. Better yet, make it a bonding activity—invite loved ones for a morning walk before the festivities begin.

The holidays are all about enjoyment, but your health goals don’t have to take a back seat. By making mindful choices and keeping balance in mind, you can indulge in festive treats without compromising your progress.

Kickstart your holiday wellness journey with exclusive fitness-focused meals curated by NOVI’s dieticians and metabolic health experts. Whether you’re gearing up for a workout or recovering after a feast, these meals are designed to support your health and vitality.

The original article can be found at https://novi-health.com/library/christmas-new-year-food-calories-and-tips.