The last few months of the year are a classic time to tackle a new diet, just in time for Summer. But as the holiday season gets in full swing there’s temptation everywhere you look. Here’s a few tips to keep your healthy eating overhaul on track into the new year.
Re-think your snacks
Alex Parker and Anna Debenham are practising dietitians from The Biting Truth who encourage snacking when it’s on healthy foods.
“You might think you’re doing everything right - exercising regularly, eating healthy main meals – however, if you’re not choosing the right snacks, you may be undoing all this hard work! We’re not saying you can’t snack, we actually believe snacking is important to help keep hunger at bay and keep you energised throughout the day. When it comes to snacking, you want to make sure you are choosing snacks that are nutrient rich AND portion controlled. Here are our top snack recommendations:
· A small tub of yoghurt and a piece of fruit (or handful of berries)
· Veggie sticks with homemade hummus dip
· Small packet of air-popped popcorn
· Handful of unsalted nuts
· Small packet of roasted chickpeas or fava beans
· 2 boiled eggs
· 4 whole grain crackers with a couple of tablespoons of cottage cheese
· Homemade banana ice cream”
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One step at a time
Kimmy Smith is the founder of the Fit Mummy Project App + Guides as well as postnatal health site Kimmy Smith Fit. She shared 3 simple steps to keeping your diet on track.
“1. Prepare as much as you can in advance. Having healthy options on hand will make it much easier to avoid temptation and stick to your healthy eating plan.
2. Don't aim to be perfect. As a Mum, I like to focus on doing the best I can when I can. Consistency is what matters most. Find a diet that you can stick to long term, rather than one that will give you instant results.
3. Keep it simple! You don't need fancy meals to help you lose weight. Fill your plate with 2/3 vegetables, 1/4 complex carbohydrates and 1/4 quality protein. Add 2 tablespoons of good fats such as olive oil and you will have the foundation of a great diet.”
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Dieting can benefit your kids too
There’s a good chance that it was your kids who inspired you to make diet changes in the first place. Include them in your journey to make mealtimes a positive environment while simultaneously benefiting your whole family's health. If you have young children then utilise toddler and baby equipment like a sturdy high chair so they can watch you cook. They’ll enjoy spending time with you and if they’re ready for solid foods it’s a great opportunity to have them try new flavours. Encourage them to ask questions and have discussions about your diet and healthy eating. A MyDeal pretend kitchen is a great setting to prompt food-centric conversation during playtime.
Fight off temptation like a pro and keep your diet on track with ease now that you have expert advice on your side.
