The festive season is here, and with it comes the joy of gathering around tables filled with delicious food. While it’s a time to indulge, it doesn’t mean you have to abandon your health goals. With a few mindful strategies and helpful resources, you can enjoy the season without overindulging.
1. Portion Control: Quality Over Quantity
It’s easy to get carried away with the abundance of festive dishes. To manage portions, serve yourself smaller amounts of your favorite dishes first. This way, you get to enjoy everything without overloading your plate.
Pro Tip: Use a smaller plate to help control portions. It tricks your mind into feeling more satisfied with less food.
2. Mindful Eating: Savor the Moment
Slow down and truly enjoy your food. Mindful eating involves taking smaller bites, chewing thoroughly, and appreciating the flavors and textures of each dish.
Try This: Put down your fork between bites and engage in conversation. This helps pace your meal and keeps the focus on the company, not just the food.
3. Choose Healthier Options
The Healthier Choice Symbol (HCS) is your ally this festive season. Look for the HCS on packaged foods, as it indicates healthier options with lower levels of fat, sugar, or salt. Incorporate these into your festive meals for a better balance.
Example: Swap regular mayonnaise with an HCS-certified lower-fat version for your salad dressing.
4. Dine Smart: Healthier Dining Programme
Dining out? The Healthier Dining Programme (HDP) makes it easier to enjoy healthier meals while eating out. Look for participating food outlets that offer lower-calorie meals or healthier options.
Resource: Visit the Health Promotion Board website to locate eateries participating in the HDP near you.
5. Stay Hydrated
Thirst can often be mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking. Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
Healthier Alternative: Skip sugary drinks and opt for sparkling water infused with fruits like lemon, mint, or berries. When dining out, look for HDP beverages, which are lower in sugar.
6. Don’t Skip Meals
Skipping meals to “save calories” for a feast often leads to overeating. Instead, have a light, balanced meal beforehand to manage your appetite.
Pre-Party Snack Ideas: A piece of fruit, a handful of nuts, or yogurt with granola are great choices to tide you over.
7. Try Festive Recipes with a Healthier Twist
Bring nutritious yet tasty dishes to your festive table. For inspiration, check out HealthHub’s recipe library for a variety of healthier meal options.
Recipe Spotlight:
· Chicken and Leek Pie: This hearty and healthier take on a festive classic is perfect for potluck parties. Find the recipe here.
· Chicken Herb Roll with Pumpkin Puree: A delicious blend of flavors that’s festive and nutritious. Find the recipe here.
· Fish & Potato Pie: A comforting dish that’s rich in omega-3s and perfect for sharing. Find the recipe here. · Apple Pie Spice: A lighter twist on a holiday dessert favorite. Find the recipe here.
For more recipe ideas, visit the HealthHub Recipe Library.
8. Listen to Your Body
Enjoy festive treats, but be mindful of your hunger and fullness signals. Festive eating isn’t about restriction—it’s about balance.
Affirmation: “I can enjoy my favorite dishes without overindulging.”
Celebrate Health and Joy
This festive season, let’s focus on making memories with loved ones while staying mindful of our health. With the support of initiatives like HCS, HDP, and HealthHub’s recipes, you can enjoy a healthier holiday without sacrificing the joy of festive feasting.
Here’s wishing you a season filled with love, laughter, and mindful eating!
