Due to this diversity, we have festivals throughout the year, and eating becomes an integral part of the celebrations. With a variety of delicious sweets and savouries available, it is natural to overindulge and stray from regular eating habits. How can one maintain their diet and keep their health on track, especially with the lineup of festive occasions from October to December?
Here are some tips to help you manage your diet during the festive season without having to deprive yourself of scrumptious food:
• Plan your meals and eating schedule on the days that you are visiting friends and family or attending parties. Do not skip meals or leave home on an empty stomach. Have smaller portions and fibre-rich meals at home. This will help you feel full and thereby more mindful of what you eat at gatherings.
• Make a habit of drinking water at regular intervals. This is not only good for your system, but it also suppresses the urge for munching in between meals. Drink some lukewarm water 30 minutes before meals. As the water takes up some volume in your stomach, you tend to eat less. Also, water helps the stomach digest the food more effectively. Avoid sugary drinks and be mindful of alcohol intake, as both are sources of empty calories and fuel cravings for calorie-dense food.
• Choose your calories wisely. When presented with an array of delicacies, take your time to consider the options. Go for the ones that are high on your 'must have’ list. Prefer dishes prepared at home or sourced through home chefs over commercially sourced food items, as you can be assured of the quality of ingredients used in the former.
• Practice mindful eating. Eat slowly and chew your food well. This helps you consciously relish the dish and enjoy it thoroughly. Also, as the brain requires an average of 20 minutes to register that you are full, eating slowly can help you feel satiated with small portions.
• In India, people display their love and affection through food. The love-loaded persuasion of mothers, grannies and aunties can break down our best attempts to resist overindulgence. Though their love is genuine as is their conviction that the extra portion will not add to the fat in our bodies, we do know better. So, it is clever to keep some valid reasons ready to help maintain a firm ‘no’. Suggesting a ‘takeaway’ is another good idea to win over the situation.
And finally, do not stress if you do give in to the temptations at times. Don’t try to overcompensate by missing meals or going for excessive workouts. Be regular with your exercise and mindful of your eating habits. Rest assured; your body will adjust to a few instances of overindulgence. Make healthy eating a habit - whether it is festive season or not!!
