How can I enjoy Christmas parties and still be healthy?
Healthy eating blog – Adam Kay Chiropractor, Radlett.
As the festive season approaches, the shops are stacked with a lot of scrummy foods. You may find yourself indulging in foods that you do not eat at other times of the year.
I am guilty of this myself. It is very easy when shopping to be drawn to the mince pies and biscuit selections. Additionally, with all the family/social events and Christmas parties over the coming weeks, it is easy to say “I’ll start being good tomorrow”. Tomorrow then becomes next week and then soon into the new year.
It is said that the average person consumes up to 6000 calories on Christmas Day – 3 times the amount of a recommended daily intake! My patients will often say to me that it’s only one day a year and the rest of the year I am careful of what I eat. Whilst this may be true, do not use it as an excuse to go off the rails.
Unhealthy eating can aggravate your existing back pain, or may even cause it in the first place! The nerves in your middle and lower back supply your stomach and intestines respectively. As a result, the spine and its nerves may become restricted and painful overload your digestion with fatty foods.
It is very achievable to have fun and eat over Christmas whilst still following a healthy eating plan.
Top tips to avoid the unnecessary weight gain over the festive season….
- Try not to snack too often but when you do, choose sensible options.
- Everything in moderation – It is OK to have sweet foods, but don’t pile your plate high.
- At Christmas parties, be careful to have smaller portions and if drinking alcohol; make sure you also drink water to keep you hydrated.
- Unhealthy foods often lack in Vitamins and Minerals. Multi-vitamins tablets are an easy way to supplement your diet with these important building blocks for a healthy body. Alternatively you can choose foods with high levels of vitamins.
Fish such as mackerel or salmon are full of omega-3 fatty acids. These reduces the likelihood of the blood clotting.
Orange juice - contains Vitamin C and potassium which helps to protect against strokes.
Choose lean meats, which are lower in saturated fats.
Lots of vegetables, such as pumpkin, squash, broccoli & cauliflower. These contain high levels of antioxidants, which can prevent or delay some types of cell damage. Almonds and hazelnuts also contain antioxidants.