With endless celebrations most people gain a little weight at Christmas time, but there are ways to ensure you don’t go overboard! Let’s take a look at the top 10 strategies to keep the overindulgence in check and beat the ‘Silly Season’ belly bulge.

1.
Never arrive at a party ravenously hungry. Ensure that during the day you have had 3 meals and some healthy snacks.

2.
If drinking alcohol at a party, alternate each alcoholic beverage for a glass of sparkling mineral water.

3.
If you are entertaining from home, there is no reason why you cannot have healthy options on hand. Provide summer fruit platters, seafood platters, crudités with hummus & tzatziki, lean meat, salads and grilled vegies.

4.
Don’t stand near a party buffet… Mindless eating may occur, especially if you’ve been drinking!

5.
Avoid bowls laden with salted crisps and sugary lollies. Instead, keep something in your hands. A glass of water in one and a napkin in the other.

6.
If you are in charge of organizing the work Christmas Party why not make it an active one? Head to the lake or park for some volleyball, frisbee or cricket. Pack healthy hampers and sunblock!

7.When it comes to Christmas desserts think about what you really want. If you really want trifle, than have it, but have a small serve and eat is slowly. Savour each mouthful and really enjoy it.

8.
If hosting a party, provide loads of non-alcoholic options. Lime and soda water, vegetable juices and iced water with sliced citrus fruit.

9.
If the room is spinning when you get home after a party, drink at least two glasses of water to rehydrate. In the morning have a nutritious breakfast like an omelette rather than a Macca’s Bacon and Egg McMuffin.

10.
A hangover is not an excuse to avoid exercise. Lessen the intensity and increase the duration (swap a fast run for a long walk).

Have a fabulous time; it’s a wonderful time of the year. If you make smart food choices and keep yourself active you won’t need to set another ‘Bridget Jones’ style New Year Resolution come January.

Cheers!

Lisa Donaldson APD
www.FEEDinc.net