Holiday Feasting Made Lighter
Holiday struggle, coping with Christmas: Methods to find festive peace
You've heard every excuse in the book for indulging during the holidays. But let's face it, folks - most of us are gorging ourselves. Yep, almost half of Austrians are guilty of it! No judgment here, we all get tempted by those family feasts.
But don't fret! Here are some tips to help you enjoy the holiday meals without the guilt.
The Smart Plate
Picking your plate wisely is key. A Christmas goose might taste divine, but it packs on more calories than a humble chicken. Not a fan of poultry? Opt for fish, like trout - lighter than carp - or even leaner options like beef.
Variety is the Spice of Life
Cold platters are a great way to offer something for everyone and lighten up the meal. Consider swapping the usual sausages and hams for cheeses, spreads, pepper strips, cherry tomatoes, and apple slices. Pro tip: Serve whole grain rolls over their fluffy counterparts.
Saucy Forsaken
Stay away from pre-made sauces! They're loaded with sugar and fat. Instead, whip up your own dips using yogurt or sour cream, or choose mayo alternatives that won't break your diet.
Eye the Glass
It's easy to forget about the calories in your drink, but beer, wine, and sparkling wine are all hiding extra calories and sugar. Stick to one glass, and keep the rest of the meal hydrated with water.
Mindful Munching
Don't rush your meals! Give your stomach time to tell you it's full. Chewing well is also crucial for proper digestion. Take your time with those Christmas cookies, pairing them with tea or coffee.
Clearing the Air
Need a break from the food? Take a stroll outside for some fresh air! It will stimulate your circulation, provide some much-needed daylight, and give your muscles a stretch.
Cleanse and Regroup
After the holidays, a day of fasting with plenty of fluids like tea, fruit or vegetable juices, and soups can help you get back on track. And if you're struggling with eating healthy, consider seeking support - the Generali Health Coaches, for instance, can show you how to make healthy eating a part of your daily life.
So there you have it, folks! Enjoy the holidays without regret by following these simple tips. And remember, everything in moderation!
*Survey conducted by Generali Insurance AG with 3,164 participants in September 2019
- In the spirit of health-and-wellness, consider choosing a healthier main dish like fish or leaner options such as beef instead of a high-calorie dish like a Christmas goose.
- To add variety and lighten the meal, swap the usual sausages and hams on cold platters with cheeses, spreads, pepper strips, cherry tomatoes, apple slices, and whole grain rolls.
- Instead of relying on pre-made sauces, which are often high in sugar and fat, create your own dips using healthier alternatives like yogurt or low-fat mayo for weight-management.
