Skip the Christmas calories

It's all too easy to pack on the kilos during the festive season. Your good eating habits go out the window. You forget about exercising. Before you know it, it's a new year and you are a pants size bigger than before.

Chomas, you can skip the Christmas calories, this year, if you know what to eat, what not to and how much to eat. Calories are a unit measure for energy and your body needs energy. However eating too many calories and not burning them off can result in weight gain. 

• Don't skip breakfast. Skimping or skipping on breakfast on Christmas day is going to make you hungry and you are more likely to overeat during Christmas lunch or dinner. 
• Watch your portions. Half of your plate should consist of veggies. The more colourful the better. Pile on the broccoli, beetroot or peppers. A quarter portion should go to the turkey. Skip the red meat altogether. The remaining quarter should go to half a cup of stuffing and half a cup of potatoes. For dessert go for one mince pie, not two. Or one serving of trifle. Resist the urge to overeat. 
• Beware the creamy veggies. Veggies coated in butter or creamy sauces are a red flag at Christmas dinner. Instead for roasted veggies with herb seasoning and olive oil. Way less in calories. 
• Watch the drinks. You'll want to stay away from the sugary sodas and juices to limit the calories. Don’t be sneaking in the alcohol either chomas – it's loaded with calories. 
• Get active. After a delicious Christmas lunch, it is inviting to have an afternoon nap. Go for a walk instead to work off the calories. Get the family involved in a sporting activity, even if it's just throwing a frisbee around in the park.

You can also skip the Christmas calories if you limit your snacking. Chocolates, biscuits and sweets add to the calorie count.