YOUR CHRISTMAS PRE-TOX
From what you eat to how you move, a pre-chrissy detox aka pretox is a gift your body will thank you for!
Are you dreading the Christmas bulge you’ll have to deal with come January? Prep now and you might not have to!
“We all love to indulge, but by filling our bodies with empty calories and depriving it of essential nutrients we enter a serious state of imbalance,” says nutritionist Rick Hay.
“A Christmas pretox can help you start the new year feeling rejuvenated and revitalised,” says Rick, whose pretox pointers combat the side effects of overindulging, such as bloating, mood swings and weight gain.
So, give your body a better chance of surviving the big day with minimal damage!
EAT RIGHT
“Eating foods rich in fibre, and plenty of vegetables in all colours (green, red, purple, yellow and orange) contributes to better digestion,” says Rick, who recommends regular protein-heavy meals.
“Protein increases your metabolic rate by up to 30 per cent, and it also helps you feel fuller for longer.”
Certain spices contain health benefits, too. “Ginger, turmeric and cardamom help support the spleen, pancreas and liver, which have to work harder at Christmas,” explains Rick.
When it’s time for a cuppa, go herbal. “Some studies show green and oolong tea may increase your metabolism and help convert some of the fat stored in your body.”
DRINK WATER
“Staying hydrated is key during the Christmas season. Drinking plenty of water supports your digestive health and creates softer stools,” says Rick.
Coconut water and nutrientdense fruit and veg combos are good options, too. “Beetroot and carrot juice have a natural sweetness and deliver lots of antioxidants to the body.”
MOVE MORE
“Exercising regularly helps keep all that extra food moving through your digestive system and the pounds off your hips,” says Rick, who advises you do at least 10 minutes of physical sical activity (swimming, walking, skipping) most days, ideally 30.
For quick results, try highintensity interval training (HIIT). “HIIT increases your metabolic rate and can help you burn more fat – even 10 minutes can help.”
SLEEP T IGHT
Endless socialising plays havoc with sleep pattern and stacks on the kilos. “Restless nights decrease the number of calories you burn and disrupt appetiteregulating hormones,” says Rick.
When we don’t get enough sleep, our cortisol levels increase, which can make us feel hungry. Rick says bank as much sleep as you can to power through the holidays without a blowout.