Nutritionists and fitness experts reveal their top food swaps keep you feeling your best this Christmas.
Our first and most important tip for those worried about staying healthy this Christmas is to not put too much pressure on yourself. Christmas outings, festive drinks and other fun events are what makes this period so special, and you shouldn’t avoid an occasion for fear of indulging.
Instead, consider swapping out some of the more indulgent treats of the season. Our nutritionists and fitness experts have detailed the small and simple changes that you can make at home over the Christmas period that will make a big difference.
Healthy Christmas swaps:
1. Swap your potato mash for a cauliflower mash
“My favourite swap is a cauliflower mash instead of a traditional potato mash,” says health coach Steve Bennett. “Add in a little butter, cheese and a dash of cranberry sauce and you have a tasty and festive alternative.”
2. Swap your prawn cocktail starter for ham and melon
When it comes to starters at Christmas, Steve recommends something light that’s rich in fibre to keep you feeling full and prevent you from nibbling throughout the day.
3. Swap industrial desserts for artisanal-made treats
Lucia Stansbie, nutritional therapist at Food Power Nutrition, advises avoiding industrial-made products. “If you’re lacking time and need to purchase some desserts, try to find some from your local artisanal bakery. These tend to have less added sugars.”
4. Roast your potatoes in olive oil rather than butter
Eleanor Hoath, nutritionist at Healf, says that olive oil is better as it’s high in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, while butter contains more unhealthy saturated fats.
5. Swap your cocktails for wine
While we all love to indulge in a festive cocktail, Eleanor suggests swapping it for a glass of red or mulled wine this festive season. This is because cocktails are likely to have a high sugar content and may leave you feeling sluggish and bloated.
Read more: Crave comfort foods in winter? Here’s why
6. Opt for homemade
Across the board, it helps to go for homemade wherever possible. Not only because it’s a sweet gesture when hosting, but it also gives you better control over the ingredients and sugar content. “Whip up your own Christmas treats with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup or dates. I also recommend the Gingerbread blend from Healf, which is syrup-free sweetener that’s enriched with gut-supporting superfoods,” says Eleanor.
Read more: 3 comfort food recipes we’re making on repeat this winter
7. Swap your salted peanuts for unsalted mixed nuts
Unsalted nuts contain fewer calories and less sodium. Both options have a high fat content, so should be eaten in moderation, but unsalted nuts are more digestible and make a healthier alternative.
8. Go for a cheese and fruit board
A cheese and fruit board is a great way to avoid pre-packaged snacks or sweets and satisfy cravings without the sugar spike. Try adding dried fruit, nuts or even a few squares of good-quality dark chocolate.
9. Swap festive drinks for drinks with no added sugar
“Be mindful of hidden sugars in drinks,” says Eleanor. “Festive lattes from coffee shops are likely to be loaded with extra sugar. These should be enjoyed as a treat but try to look for lower-sugar options where you can.”
10. Swap your crisps for popcorn
Bowls of crisps are a common go-to snack over the festive period, but they tend to offer little nutritional value. Consider popcorn instead, which contains more protein and fibre. Try to find plain or lightly salted popcorn to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
