With just some simple tips and tricks we can make sure we can enjoy these couple of weeks without feeling completely drained at the end of all holidays. Studies show that an average person will gain about 2 to 3 kilos over the Holidays as this time of the year forces us into too much of everything: eating, drinking, shopping, and so on. While indulging in everything this season has to offer is a treat we give ourselves once a year, overindulging can cause more harm than joy, both on a physical and mental level.

But, as usual, we can prevent extreme behaviours with just a little bit of planning ahead and a clear mind. It is important to always keep the idea of balance in mind and things will be just fine.

If we are not careful with our behaviour during the Holidays, we might feel the unpleasant consequences when all this is over:

Just because you are on vacation even if you stay home and your fridge is filled with goodies and you can order anything you want to eat with just one phonecall, it doesn’t mean you should be doing it too. Just stick to the usual way of eating – three main meals and two snacks – because it’s not the food that makes you merry. Even if you snack on more sweets than usual or have a glass of wine for lunch because there is nothing keeping you away from it, don’t go all crazy!

At home or at a Christmas party, remember you can always eat as many veggies as you want, but really think it through if you need that second plate of whatever just because it tastes good or smells delicious. While it is true that being around with friends and family on Christmas can make us feel children again, wanting to enjoy everything there is to enjoy, controlling ourselves as adults get as a long way. If there are several courses to eat during a meal and you want to try them all out, make sure you just taste out of everything without filling up your plate.

With all that eating and drinking, hydration is often the last thing we’re thinking about. Yes, we might be drinking alcohol and other beverages, but we need water next to us when food and drinks keep on showing up on our tables and then in our bellies. Why we need so much water? Because water is a great way to flush out toxins and support the liver in processing the Christmas excess.

While we might be spending most of our time around the table drinking and eating, we can make time to take a few steps outside, too. Grab your best friend, your mother, or your uncle and go take a half an hour walk in your neighbourhood and have a pleasant conversation while doing it. If you can get to 10.000 steps a day that would be even better, but any kind of exercising is good as long as you’re doing it.

When the parties and the get-togethers are over, what you want to do is get back on track to your usual routine as fast as possible so you can avoid stress and anxiety from eating and drinking too much. So, each healthy choice that you make after such a busy time is a reminder that you are in fact committed to staying healthy and fit.

The Holidays are here to be enjoyed! But remember the joy doesn’t lie in food and drinks. Be aware of your surroundings and make the best of seeing your family and friends without putting food and alcohol consumption in the centre.

Have a great time!

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