The holidays are always a time to celebrate. However, we have probably never needed the fun and festivities as much as we do in 2020. With Christmas just around the corner, it means it’s time to make some eggnog and open the boxes of chocolates. Essentially, it means it’s time to treat yourself.
However, just because you are indulging a little more than usual during this time does not mean you can’t stay fit and healthy. With that in mind, here are some top tips for staying healthy during the holidays.
Try everything once
At Christmas, it can be tempting to help yourself to second portions. Especially if it is a particularly delicious dessert or a slice of cake. However, a good way to keep yourself in check is by only allowing yourself to eat one portion of each dish. This means you don’t stop yourself from trying something new, but you don’t overindulge either.
Try vegan alternatives
There are many different reasons as to why you should try going vegan. It is better for the environment and the planet and can help you follow a healthier diet. However, you don’t have to completely overhaul your lifestyle in order to indulge in some vegan treats. In fact, choosing one or two vegan meals a week can have a huge impact on your life and fitness.
Find healthier ingredients
You can make a dish better (and sometimes tastier) by substituting some of the more unhealthy ingredients out for healthier alternatives. For example, you can swap sugar for sweetener, which is much better for you. Alternatively, you can try using agave syrup in your recipes instead. You may be questioning what is agave? Well, to put it simply, agave is a nectar taken from the Mexican blue agave plant. It is sweet to taste and as a result, is a great alternative to syrup and sugar. It is the perfect topping for cakes, pancakes, waffles and even drinks!
Know your limits
If you overindulge, you’ll only regret it later. Therefore, it is important that you know your limits and don’t eat or drink something just for the sake of it. This does not mean that you have to count the calories, but you should be aware of what you putting into your body and how it will make you feel.
Make time for light exercise
The last thing anyone wants to do on Christmas day is to head out on a long run or engage in vigorous exercise, but it is important that you still find a way to get some exercise in during the holidays, in order to keep up healthy habits. It can be as simple as dancing along to your favorite holiday songs, or going on a winter walk as the snow falls around you. Wherever you may be during the holidays, try to keep moving. Remember, the more exercise you do during this time, the more you will be able to snack.
However, above all, you mustn’t allow yourself to feel guilty during the holidays. You deserve a treat!
