Bring On The Christmas Snacking…It's Not All Bad
With Christmas just around the corner, it’s the time of year where we are all a little guilty of overindulging. Sticking to healthy eating habits can be hard when there is a constant stream of delicious snacks and tasty tipples around. We all know December is the time for cheese boards, chocolates and mulled wine, but that doesn’t mean you have to undo all your healthy habits.
Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to devour the Christmas snacks and stay on track with your healthy(ish) eating. We’re sharing our top tips and advice for keeping your health in mind this Christmas.
Stay Active
During the festivities, keeping up with your usual workout regime might be out of the question. It can be hard to find the time to hit the gym or get out for a jog. Don’t feel guilty for not sticking to your usual workouts over Christmas and remember everyone needs some time off. However, it is good to get active in one way or another.
Head out for a walk after a big meal instead of collapsing on the sofa for a nap. Not only will you burn some extra calories, but the movement can help promote a healthy heart and aid digestion.
Think Before You Eat
Christmas often means there are endless snacks and treats on hand for you to enjoy whenever you please. While snacking over Christmas isn’t all bad, it is important to be mindful of what you are putting into your body. Take a second to check in with yourself before scoffing down another mince pie and decide if you are really hungry or just overindulging.
Keep Hydrated
We know this one comes up a lot, but water really is magical when it comes to your health. Drinking enough water helps keep your metabolism working well and helps you feel fuller for longer. When you are staying hydrated throughout the festive season, you will naturally snack less, and your body will be prepared to burn off those extra calories.
Not only that but upping your water intake can help you reduce the effects of any excess Christmas booze you might be drinking.
Snack Sensibly
If you are trying to eat healthily this Christmas, that doesn’t mean you have to avoid the snacks completely. There are plenty of delicious snacks you can enjoy throughout the festive season, which are full of vitamins and nutrients. Our favourite holiday snacks are;
- Dried Fruits
Dried fruits are a deliciously healthy alternative to sugary treats during the Christmas season. They are naturally sweet, perfect for those sweet tooth cravings, but packed full of vitamins and goodness. Swap sweets and chocolates for raisins, prunes, figs, dates and apricots. Because the water content has been taken out of these fruits, they are packed with concentrated good stuff, making them a highly nutritious snack.
Dried fruit is high in fibre, potassium, antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin A. Snacking on dried fruit throughout the Christmas season could be good for your immune system, improve digestion and keep skin healthy.
- Nuts
Swap the crisps for some healthy nuts this Christmas. Snacking on nuts is both nutritional and satisfying. Whether you prefer cashews, pistachios, peanuts or walnuts, they all pack a healthy punch.
Nuts are antioxidants, a great source of fibre, and they leave you feeling fuller for longer, helping you stay away from those unhealthy treats. Roasted chestnuts are a delicious Christmas staple to add to your snack table, and they have the lowest fat content of many other nut options. Nuts are high in vitamin E, potassium and magnesium, just keep a close eye on your portion sizes as they are calorie dense.
- Cranberries
Cranberries are a festive favourite and scrumptious snack to enjoy over Christmas. These delicious little berries are full of antioxidants which help to maintain cardiovascular health and reduce UTIs. Cranberries are naturally low in sugar and a great source of vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K1, manganese and copper.
There are many ways to enjoy cranberries this Christmas, pop some on your cheese board for a sweet and savoury mix or add dried cranberries to any spread for a healthier option.
- Clementines
Clementines have been associated with Christmas for many years, and they aren’t just great for stocking fillers. These festive fruits make a perfect healthy snack because they are a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Snacking on a clementine can boost your skin health, increase your fibre intake and support your immune system.