The 12 Days of Christmas Survival

How to look after your health and wellbeing in the run up to the festive season

Manage your diet.

According to the British Dietetic Association the average British person will gain 5lbs over the Christmas season. If you are watching your weight then the endless buffets, constant stream of chocolates and festive drinks can put even the strongest will-power to the test! While it’s perfectly fine to have a little of what you like, it’s always worth planning ahead.

Buffet eating plan. Buffets can be particularly tricky to navigate if you are watching what you eat. The more choice we are given the more likely we are to add more to our plate. But planning ahead can help.

You could eat before you go out so that you don’t arrive hungry.
Chose a smaller size plate
Add lots of vegetables and fruit and avoid high sugar sweets
Just make one visit to the buffet table
Decide to limit your choice to no more than 5 different dishes.

If you can’t avoid snacking, then contribute some healthier choices. Nuts and satsumas can be excellent choices, but avoid sweets, cakes and chocolates that are high in sugar. High sugar foods create a surge in your blood sugar followed by a severe crash and will not only perpetuate your hunger but can effect your energy levels and mood.
Are you truly hungry or is it thirst? If you’re unsure drink a large glass of water and wait half an hour to see if the hunger has gone away.
It’s a great time to sample all the lovely festive food but remember you don’t have to eat them every day! Plan when you are going to have a treat and savour the occasion.