Top 6 Ways To Eat Healthy Over Christmas

The most wonderful time of the year is well and truly upon us, and the Christmas season is the time to enjoy yourself and celebrate with loved ones. All the festivities can make it very difficult to stay on track with healthy eating habits and exercise plans. With mince pies, mulled wine and chocolates everywhere you look, sticking to a healthy diet can be a real struggle. We’ve got a few tips and tricks to help you stay fit and healthy over the holidays, without missing out on any of the festive fun!

1. Choose A Healthy Breakfast

After an evening of Christmas festivities, you might feel the need for a greasy fry up in the morning. However, a hearty healthy breakfast is likely to make you feel much better than a full English, and will also set you up better for the day ahead. Choose something warm and tasty like a veggie-packed omelette, or for something light opt for fruit and yoghurt.

2. Drink Lots Of Water

One of the easiest ways to keep on top of your health and fitness is through drinking water. It helps with your metabolism and means you are less likely to pile on the pounds after indulging in a delicious Christmas dinner. During the festivities it can be easy to forget to drink to water, especially once the alcohol begins to flow. Keep in mind the importance of staying hydrated and ensure to get a few glasses of water in between the Baileys and mulled wine.

3. Check The Menu Before You Arrive

If you are heading out for a Christmas meal or party, then be sure to check the menu before you arrive. Most places will publish all their festive menus online so you can take a look at all your options in advance. This way you can choose the best option for your healthy eating plan, without having others influence you on the day. Knowing what you will be eating before you arrive can also help you to plan what you eat for the rest of the day. If you know you are having a big meal in the evening, you can choose a lighter lunch instead.

4. Choose Your Carvery Carefully

One of the best parts of the Christmas season is the traditional Roast dinner. Most meals out during this time of year are a delicious carvery, and luckily they are relatively healthy depending on what you choose to fill your plate with. Turkey is a very lean meat with plenty of protein, and when paired with a load of vegetables it makes for a hearty meal. All the extras are where the problems start, so just be mindful of how many pigs in blankets or Yorkshire puddings you pick.

5. Don’t Forget The Empty Calories

Alcohol often plays a big part in the Christmas fun, but can also play a big part in weight gain and calorie consumption. Both non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks can be full of loads of calories which are easy to dismiss. Try to choose lighter options to keep the empty calories in drinks to a minimum. Go for a sugar free soft drink instead of full fat, and when it comes to alcohol, pick a G&T or vodka and soda instead of wine and beer.

6. Keep Active

Over Christmas time it can be easy to sit in front of the TV and binge until the New Year. In order to stay on track with your fitness, it is vital you find the time and energy to get up and active. Many gyms will be operating reduced hours over the festive season, but don’t let that stop you. Encourage the whole family to get up and out for a walk after dinner. Make it an opportunity to try out any new outdoor gifts, such as bikes, scooters or footballs.

If you are visiting The Bull over Christmas, we can help you keep your fitness in mind. Whether you are joining us for a festive lunch, Afternoon Tea, or on Christmas Day, all our menus are available online for you to browse before you get here. Our carveries are packed full of delicious veg, and healthy options are always available at breakfast. After dining, take a stroll around our beautiful landscaped gardens, where you can discover our Bug Hotel and Herb Garden. If you haven’t booked your table yet for Christmas Afternoon Tea or festive lunch or dinner this December, then get in touch today. Call our team on 01753 202919 or email [email protected].