A healthy but tasty christmas

The festive season is just around the corner, and for many, Christmas is synonymous with indulgence. From rich roasts to sweet treats, it’s a time when families gather around the table to share delicious food and create memories. But does enjoying Christmas mean throwing health and wellness out the window? Absolutely not! With a bit of planning and a balanced approach, you can have a tasty yet nutritious Christmas. Here’s how. 

1.Prioritise seasonal vegetables 

Christmas meals often centre around the main dish—whether it’s turkey, ham, or a plant-based roast. However, the real stars of a healthy Christmas table can be the vegetables. Seasonal favourites like Brussels sprouts, parsnips, and carrots are packed with vitamins and fibre. Roast them with a drizzle of olive oil and some festive herbs like rosemary or thyme for flavour without the guilt. 

2.Healthier starters 

Instead of calorie-heavy appetisers like deep-fried snacks or creamy dips, opt for lighter starters. Consider serving a vibrant winter salad with seasonal greens, nuts, and pomegranate seeds. Another idea is smoked salmon on wholegrain crackers with a squeeze of lemon—a simple yet elegant dish that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids. 

3.Lighten up the main course 

Turkey, a traditional Christmas staple, is naturally lean and packed with protein. To keep it healthier, opt for roasting the bird rather than frying, and go easy on the butter or oils. Serve with wholegrain stuffing instead of white bread stuffing to boost the fibre content. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, a nut roast can be both hearty and nutritious, especially when made with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, chestnuts, and lentils. 

4.Delicious yet guilt-free desserts 

It wouldn’t be Christmas without dessert, but that doesn’t mean you have to overload on sugar. Traditional Christmas pudding can be made healthier by swapping refined sugar for natural sweeteners like dates or using wholemeal flour in place of white flour. For something a bit different, why not try a fruit-based dessert like baked apples or pears, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, for a warm, comforting treat? 

5.Mindful indulgence 

It’s important to remember that Christmas is a time to enjoy yourself, and part of that enjoyment is savouring festive foods. The key is to indulge mindfully. Rather than piling your plate high with everything at once, take smaller portions and eat slowly, savouring each bite. This not only helps with digestion but also ensures you’re more in tune with when you’re actually full. 

6.Staying hydrated 

With all the food and perhaps a few festive drinks, it’s easy to forget about water. Staying hydrated is essential for your overall health and can even help prevent overeating. Often, thirst is mistaken for hunger, so keep a glass of water nearby throughout the day to stay refreshed. 

7.Healthy snacking 

While Christmas often comes with bowls of chocolates, biscuits, and crisps, there are plenty of healthy snacking alternatives to keep you satisfied between meals. Fresh fruit, nuts, and homemade vegetable crisps are great options that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. 

8.Enjoy the moment 

Lastly, Christmas is about more than just food. Take the time to enjoy the company of loved ones, share stories, and relax. Eating mindfully, making healthier choices, and balancing indulgence with movement will help you make the most of the festive season without compromising your health and well-being. 

This Christmas, enjoy the flavours of the season while nourishing your body and celebrating health. After all, a balanced approach is the best gift you can give yourself!