I don’t know about you, but I already started getting delicious treats for the holidays. Healthy eating during the festive season can be challenging, but with a few simple nutritional switches, you can enjoy the holidays without compromising your health goals.
Start your day right
Whatever you do, try not to skip breakfast because it sets the tone for how your energy works for the rest of the day.
Begin your day with a nutritious breakfast by opting for whole-grain cereals like oats, fruits, and nuts instead of sugary pastries and processed snacks.
Make healthy swaps
Replace unhealthy foods with nutritious alternatives. For example, opt for brown rice, whole wheat bread, and whole grain pasta instead of white rice, white bread, and regular pasta.
If you’d rather have the meals you’re familiar with, try having them in small portions and supplement them with a healthy amount of vegetables.
In true Nigerian fashion, there will be lots of protein options to choose from, so go for grilled chicken and fish instead of fried foods. This simple switch gives you a healthier and tastier choice for proteins.
Fruits and vegetables are your go-to for healthy eating
Don’t forget to load up on fruits and vegetables like watermelon, pineapples, carrots, cucumbers etc. this holiday because they’re your secret to eating large portions without ramifications and they are affordable.
A variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your meals provide all the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that your body needs to stay active this holiday.
Whether as smoothies, salads, or just straight, fruits and vegetables will fill you up and keep you hydrated for hours!
Eating carbs the right way
We know there will be many temptations to eat carbs. I’m here to tell you that they are good for you, but only in small portions! Have smaller portions of whatever carbohydrates you like and go bigger with proteins, salads or soup.
This way you don’t miss out on the taste of that amazing plate of rice or swallow, but you’re also not jeopardising your diet.
Try healthier options for drinks
Drinks are a major component of parties and events during the holidays, and most of them aren’t healthy. Instead of taking drinks out completely, cut the alcohol and switch out fizzy drinks for healthier options like Zobo (with less sugar, of course), fresh juices, Fura da nono, chapman etc. They’re all natural and they taste amazing!
By incorporating these simple nutritional switches into your daily routine, you can enjoy a healthy and happy festive season in Nigeria.
