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Don't Ho,Ho,Ho into Christmas calories
Calorie counting over the festive season might be the last thing on people’s minds as cupboards are stocked ready for celebrations.
Hunter New England Health, clinical dietitian Sally Moy said putting on extra kilos over the festive season can impact on people suffering from weight-related medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
“Overeating can impact on every aspect of peoples’ health, the prevalence of obesity in Australia has more than doubled in the past 20 years; so it’s really important for people to watch calorie intake and change their diet and lifestyle if they are overweight,” Ms Moy said.
There are a number of ways people can still enjoy themselves without packing on the pounds, these include not skipping out on regular exercise regimes, drinking plenty of water and reducing alcohol intake over the festive season.
“The golden rule is to not turn up hungry to your Christmas party or lunch. Avoid deep-fried options and go for vegetable sticks, rice crackers, lean meats, nuts, fruits and salads,” she said.
“Try eating new types of food this Christmas, serve seafood with a variety of salads and cold lean meats. Don’t leave food out all day to pick from and if possible avoid leftovers, just cook enough for your family.”
Other tips include:
• Have one 'main' meal and serve lighter meals at other times.
• Opt for non-alcoholic, low calorie drinks such as iced water, lime and soda, fruit punch, diet soft drinks.
• Don't start serving alcoholic drinks too early in the day
• Organise a healthy activity - grab a bunch of friends and organise a picnic with frisbee, cricket or footy; go for a bike ride; pack some sandwiches and go hiking in the hinterland; swim laps in your pool
Remember, Christmas is only one day, enjoy your celebrations but don’t continue over-indulging for the rest of month.
Ref: HNE-1690
Contact: Kylie Dawson
Phone: (02) 67677136
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