7 Tips to surviving Christmas and still have fun

Do you think you may just blow your waistline over the holidays? Faced with lots of yummy food at this time of year? You can survive the silly season and enjoy your Christmas without looking like Santa by January 1.
1. Don’t eat unless you are hungry and stop eating when you are full. Does not get any clearer than that. In fact, if you take no other tips away with you, this will be the best piece of advice I can give you.
2. Don’t stop exercising because it is Christmas. If you are not already exercising regularly then don’t wait till the January 1 to start. January 1 turns into January 31 and the little doona cover around your middle gets larger so get started today. The best exercise you can do is the one that you enjoy doing. The holidays are a great time to get a game of backyard or beach cricket, volleyball or footy going. Stay cool with some beach activities or pool games. The list is endless of how much you can do that will keep you moving and is fun.
3. Drink more water. The amounts of food and alcohol we consume can be less if you drink 1 glass of water before eating and 1 glass of water between each alcoholic beverage.
4. Choose healthier and lower fat foods where possible. Choose barbequed and fresh foods over deep fried and processed foods.
5. Treat yourself to smaller amounts of party food.
6. Avoid picking at food for no good reason. Get into the Christmas spirit with activities that keep your busy. Keep moving by chatting, dancing, playing games with the kids, socializing and assisting to clean up.
7. Bring lots of healthy low fat meals and treats to the events you attend. Be mindful of the pasta and potato salads as these can be loaded with high fat dressings. By bringing along healthy food you will be helping your family and friends keep the scales down as well.

You can make a difference to the size of your bits after the silly season. Get into the habit of exercising and eating healthy now and you will survive Christmas with your body looking good and you feeling fantastic forever.