MINDFUL EATING DURING HOLIDAYS AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS

As the monsoon is on its way back, the season of festivals, celebrations and family gatherings is getting closer. The joys of festivals and family get-togethers are also filled with lots of wonderful treats and festival goodies to savour upon.

It is easier to follow a healthy diet and maintain a healthy lifestyle in our day to day routine than during times of celebrations.

Research shows that most adults gain a few kilograms during holidays and festivals. They may eventually lose 1-2 kilos but hold on to at least 1 kg each year. This slow and steady weight gain makes most adults overweight by middle age.

So, does this mean you should jeopardize on eating your favourite delicacy this festival season?

Worry not, with a little bit of planning and a few healthy tips you can enjoy your favourite foods and avoid being the victim of the yearly holiday trap.

Here are a few tips that will help you enjoy your holidays guilt-free:

1. Do not arrive at a party hungry or on an empty stomach. We often skip meals before attending a party in an attempt to save up on calories. But, that’s not how your body works. Have a healthy snack or a small meal before going for any party, preferably something that is high in fibre and contains proteins like a sprout’s salad or a vegetable sandwich. This will help you control your appetite and save you from overeating at the party.
2. Bring something to the party Offer to bring some food like an appetizer or a dessert to the party. It will be well appreciated by the host and this way you can decide what goes on your plate.
3. Plan ahead: If you are at a buffet, then scan the menu beforehand, take small portions of what you want to eat but try to avoid a second serving.
4. Choose the right plate: While taking the plate, make sure you select a smaller one (especially at weddings and engagement parties). This will ensure you don’t overfill your plate and the quantity the goes on your plate is small. (not to mention that this strategy will prevent food wastage too!)
5. Balance your plate Fill up half your plate with vegetables, one-fourth with cereals like bread, rice or pasta and another one fourth with proteins like curds, cottage cheese, dal or pulses.
6. Watch the liquid calories: No party is complete without traditional drinks and cocktails. But these drinks come along with a large number of calories. Alcoholic drink can easily contain over 200 kcals and most mocktails are high in sugar content which means 350 kcals in 1 go. Chose healthier options like unsweetened fruit juices or sparkling water.
7. Be social: Focus on your family and friends, be involved, interact with them. This will change your focus from food to family/friends. Move away from the food table, do not linger around food. This will reduce the temptation.
8. Enjoy the food: Sit down and savour every bite of your food. Eat slowly and enjoy your favourite food.
9. Be active: When you are travelling or on holiday, pack your walking shoes or sneakers. Sneak in time to go for a brisk walk or a quick jog.

Remember that moderation and portion control is the key to enjoying any type of food.