How To Stay On Track This Festive Season

Eating healthy and looking after your wellbeing can be a little difficult this time of year. Here are some of my top tips so that you and your family can stay on track these holidays - from healthy dip alternatives to a range of delicious mocktails, I share my favourite ways to stay on track and have a happy, healthy and amazing Christmas.

1) EMBRACE MOCKTAILS OVER COCKTAILS

Research shows that excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to excessive weight gain, which also increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Alcohol is high in calories, has no nutritional value and weakens the immune system. Alcohol also dehydrates the body and weakens your willpower, so you’re more likely to eat high-fat foods that you normally wouldn’t.

REMEMBER going out doesn’t have to be centred around alcohol, try a Collagen Margarita, Summer Glow Martini, or a refreshing Beauty Glow Spritzer that’s low in calories with added benefits of helping your skin look refreshed and hydrated for the festivities.

2) EAT MINDFULLY

Whilst eating out with friends and family over Christmas, just think about your fabulous food and the benefits it's doing to the body. Mindful eating is freedom to eat whatever your body is craving. Mindful eaters give themselves full permission to eat whatever they want without feeling shame or guilt. Listen to internal cues of hunger to choose what to eat, how much to eat, and when to eat it.

Research shows this mindful approach to eating works, helping people address binge eating, emotional eating, eating in response to external cues, and preventing weight gain. 

3) HAVE A HEALTHY SNACK BEFORE GOING OUT

Before going out to restaurants with friends, a great tip is to eat a a little healthy, high-protein snack before you go, to prevent overindulging on foods higher in carbohydrates + fats. A few spoonfuls of my Baba Ghanoush, Labneh or a tub of yoghurt is all you need. Don’t starve yourself before going out, you’re more likely to eat that bowl of fried chips or side of bread and butter at the table.

For recipe inspiration try some of my healthy snacks from my Cookbooks or Recipe App. Make my Beetroot or Avocado dip or a Creamy Hummus to serve alongside fresh made Lavosh or roasted sweet potato.

4)  MOVE YOUR BODY

Regular exercise helps to make you happy, boosts your immune system, tones muscle, and reduces body fat – all the things that will make you feel good and improve your health. Move your body in a way that feels good and brings you happiness.

Exercise should be a celebration of what your body can do and how it makes you feel, rather than a chore or punishment. Get into a daily routine and aim for 30 – 60 minutes each day.
 

5) EAT A GOOD BREAKFAST

Starting the day with a good breakfast, keeps you satisfied, so there’s less chance you’ll reach for unhealthy choices out of hunger.  Try something simple like a Stress Buster Smoothie, Body Shaping Smoothie or a Superfood Muesli made with Greek yoghurt, Organic Superfood and fresh berries. If you're stuck for recipe ideas, check out our Healthy Chef App for delicious recipe ideas.

6) EAT PROTEIN

Focus on enjoying protein rich foods when eating out with friends or family these holidays. Protein keeps you fuller for longer and stabilises blood sugar so you’re less likely to overeat. The best sources of protein include fish, grass-fed meats, beans, organic chicken/ turkey, yogurt, organic eggs, tempeh, tofu, healthy chef collagen powders and healthy chef protein powders.

If you're travelling this festive season, put a few sachets of the Body Shaping Shake into your handbag in case you're stuck for a healthy meal option. 

The Body Shaping Shake is high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a quick and easy, healthy, meal on-the-go.