Wondering how you’re going to survive the festive season? Christmas is a time of indulgence but don’t take it as a green light to overindulge! You can get through this period without massive regrets and impact on your health. Try our top tips for a healthier Christmas!

1. Go easy on the drink

Your favourite festive drinks are more than likely Mulled Wine, Baileys, sugary cocktails or a big cup of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and marsh mellows! Drinks like these are full of calories and may also lead to making less healthy food choices. So your best bet is to either limit your drink intake or make better choices. Try to intersperse alcoholic drinks with soft ones + drink a lot of water.

2. Don’t sit or lie down on the couch all day

Don’t forget you aren’t paralysed and your legs can actually walk during Christmas time! Shake off the Christmas calories and encourage the whole family to get out for a walk – ideally after dinner to aid digestion. The more activity the better!

3. Don’t stress

Christmas is the season of joy, happiness and relaxation. However, many of us often feel overwhelmed with overspending, cooking, cleaning, endless “to do list” and visitors we could do without. Remember Christmas is just one day out of 365 and it is really not the end of the world if things aren’t perfect! Do you really care that auntie Marry likes her carrots well-cooked or that Uncle John doesn’t really eat stuffing? Is this something worth stressing over? Think again – definitely not!

4. Eat Fruit and Veg

At this time of overindulgence, partying and late nights around Christmas time, it’s important that we try to keep our healthy snacks and fruit and vegetables on the table! Don’t forget your vitamins and minerals will help you stay in good health. Have a glass of freshly squeezed juice at the start of the day.

5. Be good and do something for others

Some of the best gifts aren’t stocked on the shop shelves. A cheery visit to someone who lives alone or baking some extra mince pies for an elderly neighbour can be the best Christmas gift you can give.

6. Engage your brain

Instead of spending all of your Christmas time in front of the TV, keep your mind active by playing family games. This is also a great way of getting everyone together.