Avoid the Christmas blow out

The lead up to the Christmas/New Year period is often full of frantic deadlines, extra social commitments and, of course, all of those delicious once-a-year festive treats. If you’ve worked hard all year to keep your New Year’s resolution of getting in shape physically and mentally, these five tips will help ensure you make it through the festive season without the dreaded ‘Christmas blow out’.

1. Create a food diary

If you’re trying to keep on top of your health goals, it might be time to start a food diary to help keep track of what you’re eating.

Clever apps like Calorific, My Diet Coach and Yazio are all options that help track food, calories and goals, ensuring festive blow-outs aren’t on the cards.

2. Take time out

Mental and emotional health is just as important as physical health at this time of year.

You’re tired from 12 months of being on the go, and as your social life is likely kicking into overdrive it’s more imperative than ever to create balance so you don’t burn out.

Take time out every day to do something you love, be it exercise, meditation, journaling or mandala colouring in.

Whatever it is, make it an activity that reduces stress, boosts energy and sets you in good stead for the year ahead.

3. Be prepared

Incidental snacking, like grabbing a packet of chips from the vending machine or eating all the party pies because you’re starving, is one of the most common festive season pitfalls.

How does it come about? Lack of preparation.

Put some time aside each week to pack your lunch and snacks in advance, so when that pang of hunger hits you’re prepared with healthy choices.

Keep them in your handbag or at your desk so they’re readily available whenever you need them.

Another tip? Up your water intake to counteract any increased alcohol and salt you might be indulging in.

4. Make ‘moving’ dates

If you’re trying to squeeze in catch-ups with friends before the year wraps up, opt for healthy dates like walking or running over dinner or a drink. You’ll still get a chance to talk, but rather than being sedentary (and probably having a few drinks and a greasy meal) you’ll be out in the fresh air and exercising instead.

5. Embrace probiotics

New research suggests diversity in your gut health creates increased resilience, meaning looking after the natural gut flora that exists in us all has the ability to make you healthier.

One of the easiest way to preserve your natural bacteria is to take pre and probiotic supplements, which work to balance the good and bad bacteria, increasing nutrient absorption, boosting immunity and even alleviating stress. Priceline Pharmacies Grand Central, Northpoint and Westridge would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our valued customers a safe and happy Christmas season. We look forward to helping you with all your health and beauty needs in 2018.