Health hacks this Christmas

Piling on the pounds at Christmas has long been the trade off for enjoying yourself during the festivities – nobody wants to be a Scrooge with their food during the holidays.

I understand; the food at Christmas is delicious, the alcohol flows freely and gifts can often come in the form of a chocolate box.

Here are my health hacks for enjoying Christmas to the full, without the expanding waistline to match.

Keep track

Use an app like MyFitnessPal to track your calorie intake as accurately as possible. You don’t even need a calorie goal; the sharply rising number is often enough to put you off your fifth mince pie.

Caution with your portions

Load your plate with vegetables, and promise yourself you can add seconds of meat, stuffing and potatoes if you really want it.

Chances are, you’ll be full and won’t need to go back for more.

Think about your drink

Alcohol forms a large part of your calorie intake. As well as tracking it and being aware of the calories in your choices, choose sugar free mixers and limit fruit juice

Walk off the weight

Get out of the house for a walk with your family, or use it as a chance to re-centre yourself alone, in what can be a really hectic time.

As well as being great for your mental health, every step boosts your metabolism

Go low

When grocery shopping and cooking, aim to use low fat and sugar foods, such as dairy, spreads, salad dressings and oil.

Focus on the good stuff 

Rather than seeing this as a restrictive approach to food, try and focus on the foods full of fibre, vitamins and healthy fats and protein, like turkey and all the seasonal vegetables on offer.

You can also try making healthier alternatives to classic Christmas recipes, such as low fat gingerbread men or chocolate protein balls.

Think before you eat

Ask yourself; am I eating this because I’m hungry, because I’m bored or because its in front of me? If it’s the latter two, stop. Suggest a game or a walk to break up the mindless munching.

‘Tis the season to be jolly

Take time to check in on your mental health.

With your routine out of whack, food, sleep and exercise taking a turn for the worse, and the added pressure of cooking, cleaning and overspending, Christmas can be tough.

Delegate jobs if you’re struggling, and remind yourself of what’s really important. Its only one day of the year; its really not worth stressing over.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.