While the holiday season is a time of joy, celebration and gathering around traditional and tasty foods, it is important to also remember the real enjoyments; savouring your favourite meals with your friends and families, but not compromising your health and well-being.

We’ve all been there more times than we’d care to count. Holiday season arrives, and all of a sudden bad habits become okay, with the mindset that you will ‘reset in the new year’. Though an easy trap to fall into, it is never too late to try something different.

In short, you can still enjoy an indulgent holiday season, and maintain a balanced healthy lifestyle. The great news is it’s easier than you would think, and it saves you the hassle of dreading the New Year’s ‘reset’.

To get you started, here are some yufeed tips:

6 Tips on How NOT to go off the Rails During the Holidays

1. Plan Ahead: When invited to a gathering, make sure you plan and organise your meals during that day accordingly. For example, have a healthy salad for lunch and avoid snacking. Alternatively, you could have a small snack before heading out, as this will help you make better choices when you hit the dinner buffet.
2. Eat Mindfully: Practice mindful eating by savouring each bite and listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. This can prevent mindless bingeing and help you enjoy your meals without overeating. Put down your fork in between bites, engage in conversation, and enjoy the flavours. Try to fill your plate with lots of vegetables, some protein, and healthy carbohydrates. If you decide to go back for seconds, only opt for the items you really loved.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining overall health and can also help control your appetite. So, before reaching for that second helping of dessert, try having a glass of water. You might find that your body was just thirsty, not hungry. Staying hydrated also keeps your metabolism and digestion in check, something we all truly need during this festive, yet indulgent period.
4. Stay Active: Just because your diet has been somewhat compromised, doesn’t mean that your workouts have to suffer. Keep your activity routine the same, and avoid any excuses. Take a walk after lunch &/OR dinner and enjoy the nice weather by taking bike rides as a family or participating in holiday themed-fitness classes. Not only does physical activity help you stay fit, it will also boost your mood! You will also find that it saves you from the post-holiday lull that all too many of us feel once the new year festivities are over.
5. Choose Wisely: Enjoy the meals you love, however, choose mindfully. Try to balance it out by choosing baked over fried and by having smaller portions; if you’re still hungry after, then by all means, go for seconds, but don’t start off with a massive helping. Also, avoid sugary drinks and replace them with sparkling water, flavoured with fresh fruits and lemon juice.
6. Don’t Skip Meals: Skipping meals in anticipation of a festive feast can lead to overeating/binge eating later. Eat timely, balanced meals throughout the day to keep your metabolism steady and to prevent excessive hunger.

Finding the balance between enjoyment and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key. And remember, this season is about joy, connection and making memories.

Here’s to a healthy and Happy New Year!