Finding Balance During the Holidays

Have you heard the term ’Silly Season’? That special time of year when food and drink flow freely, fun is had by all and giving is the name of the game. 

So how on earth can we find balance between all of these things?

I am a firm believer that balance should be practised throughout the year and like anything the more we practise something the better we become at it.

The very idea of balance is one that allows for occasional indulgences, consumed and enjoyed without guilt whilst maintaining a diet rich in nutrients all year round.

I understand this is easier said than done, so let’s keep it simple.

I have 4 non-negotiables I want you to prioritise day in, day out and especially during any time of increased indulgence. By following these 4 simple tips, your diet will remain rich in nutrients, void of restriction and enjoyed without guilt.

Fruits and Veggies with all meals

The idea of focusing on what we can included vs what we should subtract starts here. Often during the holiday season we don’t consume enough fruits and veggies which in turn also means we do not consume enough gut friendly fibre. All of which are imperative for immune support, satiety, vitamin and mineral absorption as well digestion. It might not seem possible to include these rainbow foods in all meals but with a little forward thinking it can easily be achieved. A side of veggies or a large side salad for the table, a chopped fruit salad prepped in the fridge to add to breakfasts, both sweet and savoury, how about adding a cup of veggie soup as a starter or beside your leftovers sandwich.

The idea of focusing on what we can included vs what we should subtract starts here. Often during the holiday season we don’t consume enough fruits and veggies which in turn also means we do not consume enough gut friendly fibre. All of which are imperative for immune support, satiety, vitamin and mineral absorption as well digestion. It might not seem possible to include these rainbow foods in all meals but with a little forward thinking it can easily be achieved. A side of veggies or a large side salad for the table, a chopped fruit salad prepped in the fridge to add to breakfasts, both sweet and savoury, how about adding a cup of veggie soup as a starter or beside your leftovers sandwich.

Protein 

To put it simply. Protein is the most satiating of all the food groups, and in my opinion should be the cornerstone of every diet. We each have varying protein requirements depending on our physical activity level, but what remains consistent is the benefits it has in a healthy diet. As mentioned protein consumption leads to greater satiation, meaning we are less likely to over eat or feel hungry too often. It is also important for hormone production as well as immune support, something we all need this time of year. Ensuring good quality protein in consumed throughout the day, in both main meals and snacks will also aid in blood sugar balance and promote regular eating; avoiding restriction. Think eggs for breakfast, a turkey sandwich for lunch and greek yogurt as mid afternoon snack.

Hydration

What’s your favourite holiday tipple? I adore a glass of Champagne on Christmas morning, toasting to the day ahead. We often consume more than our usual amount of alcohol during times of celebration which can easily lead to a decrease in water consumption. A simple start to the day would be to drink at least 0.5litres before anything else, starting as you mean to go on. Finally; it’s an oldy but a goody, but for every glass of alcohol, drink a glass of water. This will ensure that you’re negating some of the negative side effects that come with too much booze such as dehydration and headaches.

Sleep

Last but certainly not least, sleep is KING when it comes to health and wellbeing, especially when we might be burning the proverbial candle. Prioritising rest and especially sleep will pay dividends in relation to regulating appetite, helping to in turn make healthier choices overall.

To conclude, I want you to know that YOU are in charge. Do not let media or those with loud voices tell you whatever you choose to do is wrong. To find true balance one must find security in their decision making; taking ownership for choices made. It is ok to want to reduce training, increase carbs, move less and be overall more lazy this time of year. This is a small percentage of what the whole year looks like, however you choose to approach it is right for you; as long as you’re doing it with self compassion and most importantly enjoy yourself. Keeping check of my top 4 non negotiable is a great way of prioritising health and maintaining healthy foundations, letting the various indulgences pepper around you.