Top tips for a healthy and trim start to the New Year

Traditionally, Christmas and New Year is a time to eat, drink and be merry. But a festive feast with all the trimmings can add up to more than 3500 calories – 50 per cent more than an adult man’s recommended daily intake – in just one meal.

Eating and drinking too much and doing little or no exercise over the festive period can lead to weight gain. 

Linda Convery, Section Manager Community Dietetics at Birch Hill Hospital, said:“Eating this much all in one go – without counting all those extra alcoholic drinks, snacks and nibbles – can cause real problems, especially for people who have a poor diet all year round.

“Keeping healthy over the Christmas and New Year period doesn’t have to be a chore and can be a great way to make the most of time off with your family and friends. A gentle winter walk in the park can really help you get rid of that sluggish, post-indulgence feeling.”


Top tips for a trim start to the New Year:

• Don’t overdo the festive spirit – alcoholic drinks are full of hidden calories
• At the buffet, opt for healthier finger foods  - swap crisps for tortilla chips, and pick pretzels over salted peanuts
• Avoid the temptation to go back for second helpings.
• Don’t skip breakfast - your body will store more fat the next time you eat.