For many of us the Christmas period evokes a variety of emotions and it is safe to say that some of us enjoy it more than others, but what probably unites us all is that come January we are feeling sluggish and fat. Here are some tips to limit the damage. You’re welcome.
Keep moving. Seems obvious, but for most of us our regular exercise goes out of the window during December. It will be very helpful to keep moving if you’re not exercising and you don’t need to change into lycra to get the benefits. Get some steps in. Make a habit of going for a walk after a meal. Doesn’t have to be a long one, it all adds up. The kids may want to join you if you go hunting for the best xmas decorations. Do some squats every time you’re waiting for the kettle to boil and go into a plank every time there’s an ad break when you’re watching telly. Play is exercise too; a rough and tumble or some footie with the kids (or friend/partner) will get the heart rate going.
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will help overeating (especially drinking a glass of water before a meal) and keep your energy levels up.
Have a glass of lukewarm water and lemon juice or lemon essential oil (check that you can ingest your oil, I recommend doTERRA oils) first thing every morning to cleanse and support the digestive system.
Don’t skip meals to ‘save’ calories for the crap you are planning to consume later in the day. If you have a healthy meal with plenty of protein, healthy fats and vegetables, you are far less likely to overdo it on the bad stuff.
Be selective about snacks. Enjoy the seasonal treats, but there is no reason to go crazy on stuff you can have any time of the year.
When you are having a meal (including Christmas dinner) start by eating the protein and fats first. They work best on your satiation hormones and will limit the amount of unnecessary carbs you may consume.
Serve your food on smaller plates. Many studies have shown that you will eat less from a smaller plate.
Eat mindfully, don’t just stuff your face without acknowledging what you are eating. Chew every bit 20 times (or at least more than you would normally) and really appreciate what you are eating.
Make a bone broth with the turkey carcass (or chicken whenever you may have roast chicken). Put the carcass in a slow cooker and submerge in water. Add vegetables of choice (like carrot, onion, leek, etc), herbs, seasoning and a splash of apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals from the bones) and simmer for a few hours or longer if you like. Strain so you are left with a beautiful broth which you can drink or use in soups or sauces. You can also freeze it in portions. It is incredibly nutritious, provides collagen and supports your immune system.
Use essential oils to curb cravings. Grapefruit and cinnamon oil are very effective for this. Check that you can ingest your oils. I recommend doTERRA oils, please let me know how you can buy these oils at wholesale prices.
With these tips, I hope you feel that you can enjoy December whilst limiting the damage to your health. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas!