* * * * * * * Breakfast * * * * * * *
Breakfast is an essential start to the day; often missed over the festive season due to the imminent lunch or a heavy head from the night before. Breakfast kick starts your metabolism and is scientifically proven to make you snack less later on in the day. Why not try these seasonal options:
- Porridge made with low-fat milk and a festive sprinkling of cranberries or cinnamon.
- Smoked salmon on wholegrain toast – it’s a great source of essential fats and the wholegrains will ward off any mid morning temptations towards that tub of chocolates.
- Poached eggs, baked beans, grilled mushrooms and tomatoes on toast – get those “5 a day” in early with this filling and low-fat breakfast.
- Low fat yoghurt with stewed apples and raisins with a pinch of mixed spice.
* * * * * * * “The Little Extras” * * * * * * *
Did you know that, on average people gain between 1-5lb (1-2.5kg) over Christmas? It is easy to over-indulge during this time with lots of tempting treats around. It tends to be those “little extras” that pile on the pounds. So here is how you can help to control your festive snacking:
- Keep chocolates, biscuits and sweets out of sight. Try putting a few in a bowl for everyone to share and then put the tub back in the cupboard. “Out of sight, Out of mind”
- Keep a large bowl of festive fruit to hand e.g. Satsuma’s, dried figs, dates or apricots, apples and pears.
- Try roasting some chestnuts: they are low in fat and a great source of essential vitamins and minerals.
- Other good snacks include unsalted nuts, plain popcorn, pretzels or raw veg and low-fat dips.
- Save items like mince pies and Christmas cake for a dessert rather than an extra to be eaten later on.
NEXT WEEK (16th December) … we’ll talk about “The Main Event” and how you can make your Christmas dinner slightly healthier this year, with no compromise on taste!
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