Staying Healthy over Christmas

The ‘Silly Season’ is fast approaching. The temptations of overindulging are all around us. And while it is great to give in to these temptations every now and again, we need to make sure that we maintain a healthy balance.

Sometimes staying healthy over the silly season is easier said than done. So we’ve put together our top tips for maintaining healthy habits this Christmas and New Year.

Keep your exercise up

Christmas time can get busy. Make sure you allocate at least 30 minutes every day to do some gentle exercise and getting that heart rate up. Exercise shouldn’t be a chore. Choose an activity you enjoy and something that allows some time just for you. Take this 30 minutes and nourish your mind and body with healthy endorphins.

Fill up before you head out

If you are heading out for Christmas shopping or even to a get together with friends or family, temptation is all around. Christmas treats are plentiful and it’s easy to skip a meal and snack on another handful of salty nuts, chocolate or chips. Fill up with something nutritious before you leave. Not only is it more healthy, you will be less inclined to overeat while you are out and save money on food at expensive food courts and cafes.

Make water your companion

We are so lucky to celebrate a summer Christmas. But Christmas time can be hot and we need to stay hydrated. Sometimes when we are dehydrated we feel hungry. So before you go for that second helping of food, have a big glass of water and wait for 15 - 20 minutes.

Have a cutoff time

Eating and drinking sugary meals and drinks after 8pm means your stomach has to work harder which can disrupt your sleep. Try having a cutoff time around 7 or 8pm to be done eating and drinking—especially sugary and fatty treats and alcohol—and stick to it so your body can rest better at night.

Drink responsibly

There is no shortage of information out there on the effects of alcohol on our bodies. Over this celebratory season, make sure you drink responsibly.

Be social

A healthy social life is great for your overall wellbeing. Spending time with family or friends, getting involved in clubs, with committees or a sports group are all great ways to be social over the silly season. Christmas is a great time to get involved in a new activity and form new friendships and connect to your community.

Don’t forget your sleep

Getting a good night's sleep is important at the best of times. But over Christmas, sleep and routine can be a little disrupted. A good night's sleep will help you to stay energised and healthy.

As with everything in life, the key to a healthy life is moderation. You just need to make sure that you prioritise your health and wellbeing over this busy period. You want to start the new year fresh and ready for a great year ahead.

From all of us at The Good Meal Company we wish you a happy, healthy and safe Christmas and New Year!