For many of us, the holiday season can be a time to throw in the towel and forget about the healthy life.
But the JSHealth life is different.
It’s about balance and ensuring your healthy life is manageable and sustainable all year round which means indulgence, parties, good holiday food, fun times – are all part of the JS life.
As I always say – a balanced, moderate approach is the only way. The moment we become extreme with food or our diets – it backfires and we do not know how to eat, move and live with balance.
We just have to learn to make good choices as often as possible and indulge with moderation. My philosophy is everything in small amounts. Avoid rigid food rules. It is really important we are FLEXIBLE eaters during the holiday time.
Deprivation is not a good idea either. I encourage the community to enjoy Christmas treats in small amounts. Deprivation often leads to overeating or binge eating. We have to learn to eat with moderation and mindfulness.
Holiday meals don’t have to leave you feeling stuffed, lethargic and unhealthy. There are tasty, wholesome alternatives to festive food. I encourage you to make healthy versions of your fave treats – the JS way J
So how do you eat with balance during holiday meals and parties?
Before:
– Start your day with 30 minutes of movement – so healthy for your mindset too! This could be a walk in nature, a quick HIIT workout or a morning yoga flow.
– Arriving at a party hungry is never a good idea. I recommend having a satiating protein-rich snack before leaving the house. My favourite snack options before an event: my Protein Power Smoothie, a handful of raw nuts, Greek yoghurt with cinnamon, carrot sticks with hummus, a boiled egg or my signature Sugar-Free Protein Balls.
– Try your best to eat well before the event. Don’t skip meals because you’ll be having a larger lunch or dinner. This can lead to overeating at the event. Eat as you normally would – and make sure you enjoy a good dose of veggies!
– Drink a big glass of water with fresh lemon – before your event.
– Make a healthy sweet treat for friends and family. This seems to really inspire friends and family – proving how delicious healthy food can taste
During:
– Take 3 deep breathes before your meal and remember the food is not going anywhere. You can eat more later or tomorrow. You do not have to eat EVERYTHING now.
– Aim to make the best food choices available to you. Avoid the fried and sugary options and go for fresher, grilled options instead.
– Ensure half your plate of food is greens and veggies, always. This will make you feel so good.
– Make sure you enjoy a protein during the meal – this is what keeps you full and satisfied.
– Try to have a balanced plate of food – good fats, protein, healthy carbohydrates (low GI and gluten-free if possible) as well as veggies. If you want to try something that you may consider ‘unhealthy’ – do not deprive yourself. Put a small portion of your plate and enjoy it without guilt!
– Drink wisely. Enjoy 2-3 alcoholic drinks at an event if you wish, and choose red wine or gin, vodka or whiskey with soda water and fresh lemon for a healthier option.
After:
– If you are craving ‘unhealthy treats’ – that is okay! Give yourself permission to enjoy a moderate amount – eat with mindfulness and joy! Remember you will be going back to eating well tomorrow – do not throw in the towel just because you have indulged – your body can handle it.
– Feeling very full? I love to go for a 20-minute walk after a big meal to digest.
– Enjoy some hot water with lemon or peppermint tea post meal.
