Try not to overindulge this festive season by eating healthy
Anke van Waveren, a local dietitian, explains there are various precautionary measures one can take in order to minimise the chances of overindulging during the festive season.
POLOKWANE – During the holiday season healthy eating is conveniently forgotten as we are tempted around every corner to overindulge.
It is the festive season so there is no shortfall of dinner parties, get-togethers, and supermarkets display an array of colorfully packaged treats, just screaming ‘please buy me’.
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Nowhere seems to be safe from temptation. Everyone is joyful and what celebration is truly a celebration without a good hearty cooked meal with all the trimmings, loads of drinks, followed by a big helping of calorie-loaded desserts.
Unfortunately there is a high risk of continuing with unhealthy eating habits long after the holiday has passed. This is because eating habits develop very fast, but breaking them is very difficult.
“People tend to have extra time on their hands seeing as they are not at work; this can be utilised in developing a regular exercise regime. Cooking methods is one of the top ways in which calories can greatly be reduced. Instead of frying, grill food and if roasting use a low calorie cooking spray instead of lard, butter and oil. Steaming vegetables also retains much more nutrients and flavor and is one of the healthiest cooking methods,” Anke advises.
Anke says instead of preparing a six-course meal with all the trimmings, rather lessen the courses and use the money on decorations, glitter, lights and a big Christmas tree.
By swapping regular ingredients, food and drinks for their half-fat alternatives, a big cutback on calories and fat consumption can be made.
“Lastly one should develop a food snob attitude when it comes to buffets and finger food. Scan the tables for your favourite festive food and skip the everyday dishes which are available all-year long. It is certainly not your responsibility to sample everything on the buffet. Dish up your personal holiday favourites then find a seat and slowly, but mindfully, savour every mouthful.
“The golden rule to remember is moderation with regards to the rich foods we consume over the festive time, and try to balance these items with regular servings of fruit and vegetables,” Anke explains.
For more information regarding healthy eating, contact Anke at (015) 296 0528 or 078 153 3514.
