7 Ways to Minimise Overindulging at Christmas

‘Tis the season to overindulge – and regret it the next day. But does it really have to be that way? Nutritionist and health coach Jan McLeod guides us through the 7 best ways to enjoy your food whilst minimising overindulging this festive season.

1. Don’t over-fill your plate
It’s easy to get excited when you see your favourite dishes, but remember the festive season is much longer than one meal, so you have plenty of time to enjoy.

2. Leave it
If you mistakenly overfill your plate, don’t feel compelled to eat everything. It’s ok to leave something. That’s why the term leftovers was created!

3. Choose a mix of light and heavy dishes
You will not only experience a range of textures, smells and tastes, but you will also help your waistline.

4. Get up early and get active
After eating a big lunch or dinner, the last thing you will feel like doing is being active, so do it before you eat

5. Plan your week
Understand the days you are eating heavier and plan to include meals on the other days that are lighter and will give your digestive system a rest.

6. Practice the words ‘no thank you’
Sometimes we can find ourselves in situations where we feel compelled to say ‘yes’, but saying ‘no’ politely is okay.

7. Seconds? Don’t mind if I do
If you often find yourself going in for seconds, halve your initial portion size. That way, even if you go back for more, hopefully you will still be eating less.

What do you think – do you overindulge at Christmas or do you avoid overeating?

Jan McLeod runs Mad For Health, a personal and business health and nutrition consulting service that provides simple, practical advice on how to eat delicious, nutritious food that enables you to live a long and healthy life.