On average we gain around 6lb over the festive season. If you want to avoid that bloated feeling in January take a look at these tips, which allow you to indulge without expanding your waistline.
Christmas dinner
If eating turkey, choose the lean white meat, which contains less calories and fat than the dark meat. A 100g portion of roast breast contains 150 calories and 2g of fat compared with 177 calories and 6.6g fat in the dark meat. Remember to remove the skin and trim away all visible fat.
Don’t smother your meal with fatty sauces and gravy. Instead accompany with a homemade cranberry sauce made by stewing fresh cranberries with freshly squeezed orange juice and a dash of port.
Fill up your plate with steamed vegetables and don’t add butter. Instead of roast potatoes, oven-bake potato wedges with a sprinkling of freshly ground black pepper. If you opt for roast potatoes and parsnips, parboil them first and brush with a little olive oil before placing them in the oven. Cut them into large chunks to reduce the fat they absorb.
If you eat stuffing, choose a vegetable- and rice-based one as opposed to sausage meat.
Substitute brandy butter for low-fat Greek yogurt, fromage frais or natural yogurt. A tablespoon of fat-free fromage frais contains 10 calories compared to 98 calories for a tablespoon of brandy butter.
Have bowls of fruit and nuts to hand for snacking instead of tins of chocolates and sweets.
Christmas parties
When faced with a Christmas buffet, select raw vegetables with dips such as houmous and salsa and avoid creamy options. Steer clear of fatty foods such as sausage rolls, garlic bread, samosas, quiches and other pastry nibbles.
Avoid going out to a party when you’re starving. You’ll definitely be more inclined to overeat if there is food to hand. Have a healthy snack beforehand.
Watch your alcohol intake. Don’t let others constantly top up your glasses. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or choose pure fruit juices mixed with sparkling water.
Overdone it? Take a look at our tips to get rid of a hangover!