Cape Town - This is probably the worst time of the year to be thinking about losing weight.
But with big events already lined up in the new year, I’m on a mission to drop a few kilos over the next month.
You see, I have this outfit in mind – in fact I already bought it, and if I gain as much as a millimetre I won’t be able to fit into it.
So I’m going to have to watch what I eat over the crazy festive season.
I’m sure I’m not the only one in this boat though. For one, I know there are quite a few brides-to-be out there who are watching their figures.
Let’s take a look at what we can do to get through this time of honey-glazed gammon and trifle!
Meat:
It’s so hard to resist those deep fried chicken legs, but if you are serious about this challenge then best you avoid them. Rather opt for grilled chicken breasts instead, or any other cuts of lean meat. Fish is always a great option as well. And of course, go for grilled or steamed instead of deep fried.
The side dish:
A Christmas lunch table or a festive braai isn’t complete without a potato salad - but you are going to have to pass on the spuds this season. Same goes for those garlic rolls! A yummy crunchy fresh green salad is the way to go. And a good helping of oven roasted veggies are a great alternative to those deep fried potatoes.
Sweets for my sweet:
This is going to be the toughest of all. Your mother and auntie have this annual battle of who makes the best trifle. Of course you have to try them both. But this doesn’t mean you have to try two huge bowl, so watch your portions.
And since it’s summer time we have the best fruit in season now, so how about taking a fresh fruit salad along for Christmas lunch?
But don’t kill the good stuff with a huge dollop of cream now.
Booze
You surely can’t bring in the new year with a glass of water, but watch those calories at the same time. Red and white wine in moderation is on the low carb side, and a a white wine spritzer is a great way to enjoy a tall drink.
Any drink that is mixed with cooldrinks - like brandy and Coke - is a no-no.
Same goes for creamy cocktails like a Pina Colada.
Don’t forget to always have a glass of water in between alcoholic drinks.
Daily Voice