Xmas the Healthier Way

Christmas is a magical time full of joy, love and, of course, beautifully set tables with delicious dishes. This is certainly the most charming time, dominated by unusual snacks, cakes, and dishes. All this can affect our well-being and body weight. So how can you enjoy the holidays and take care of your health at the same time? Let me share some tips with you, and if you follow them, this year’s holidays will certainly be unique and completely healthy.

 

Healthy Alternatives to Traditional Dishes

Did you know that we can easily and simply slim down Christmas Eve meals? You don’t have to give up carp, your favorite porcini soup, dumplings or poppy seed cake. Try to choose alternative ways of preparing them. Instead of breaded and fried carp, roast it. This version will certainly be lighter, but equally delicious. Don’t forget about flavorful spices and herbs, such as rosemary, garlic, and lemon pepper that will perfectly blend into the dish, and the smell of Christmas will waft throughout the house. When cooking porcini, fish or borscht soup, avoid products that increase calories. Soups also taste great without the addition of cream and flour. Such natural brews will bring out the flavor of a traditional dish even more. Choose whole grain flour for flour products, thanks to which the dishes will be rich in fiber, which will provide a feeling of satiety. What about sweets? Healthy, sweet substitutes for preparing cakes are xylitol, erythritol, dates (or a spread made from them). Enjoy what is tasty and healthy!

 

 

A Little Bit of Everything, or How to Find the Golden Mean

During the holidays everything is special, every dish made by our loved ones tastes amazing, so it’s no wonder that we crave to taste such delicacies. How not to overdo it with such delicious treats all around? It’s easy! Choose what you really want, not just because it’s on the table.

The second golden rule is all about moderation and variety. Try smaller pieces of each of your favorite dishes.

And thirdly: moderation – try to rest and take breaks from eating. Take breaks from eating, leave the table, and drink some water or Christmas infusions with cinnamon, cardamom or cloves, which will certainly warm you up and, more importantly, improve your digestion.

 

Active Rest and Family Time

Don’t forget about exercise! Although Christmas is a time of rest, a short and brisk walk will provide active rest for the body. Playing together is a great way to stay physically active. There is only one piece of advice: pencil in physical activity for your Christmas today. During the Christmas Eve preparations, you can take a break for some easier, short training using my Diet & Training by Ann application (HERE), choosing a single workout. And during Christmas – a walk after dinner, dancing together to Christmas music, board games with the whole family or even playing outdoors. It’s a great way to spend time with your family and maintain a healthy lifestyle at the same time.

 

Zero Waste, or How to Deal with Surplus Food

Does it sound familiar? Before the holidays, we worry whether we have prepared enough food. After all, it’s such an important time that we want it to be solemn and try to make sure everyone can taste our dishes. And afterwards it turns out that we are left with too much of everything!

There is only one piece of advice – to feel lighter after this special period, just freeze the prepared meals and eat them gradually. Use what you have made in your kitchen and preserve the magic of Christmas dishes for longer, instead of eating too much throughout the next week. Remember that you can also use the food pantry so that nothing goes to waste. “Zero Waste Christmas” is certainly one of the best slogans and principles.

 

Christmas is Pure Magic!

Find some time for yourself, rest and enjoy the Christmas mood.

Celebrating a healthy Christmas is not only a healthy choice, but also a way to create lasting memories from this special period. Let this holiday be a time of joy, love, and balance between culinary pleasures and taking care of your health. Merry and Healthy Christmas!

 

Summary

Christmas is an extraordinary family time. This magic is associated with the joyful, warm atmosphere, but also with unique dishes. Remember that this is your time. Don’t give up on tradition, but try to find a lot of healthy, active rest during this period, so that you feel healthy and SPECIAL!

 

This is what I wish you: A UNIQUE AND JOYFUL TIME!

 

Bibliography:

1. Eckstrom E., Suvi Neukam S., Kalin L., Wright J. Physical Activity and Healthy Aging. Clin Geriatr Med, 2020 Nov;36(4):671-683.
2. Zaman R., Hankir A., Jemni M. Lifestyle Factors and Mental Health. Psychiatr Danub, 2019 Sep;31(Suppl 3):217-220.