Five hacks to help you eat healthier this festive season

• Sticking to a healthy diet during the December holidays can be a true test of your willpower. 
• But it doesn't have to be that tough, says Dr Mosima Mabunda. 
• "It's possible to enjoy the holidays without overindulging while starting a new year in better health," Mabunda says.
  
• Make good food choices this festive season with these tips from Mabunda.

Your lifestyle choices have a huge impact on your health and well-being, so why not use this season to start making good ones?

"I always say that even modest lifestyle changes make a difference. Just by taking small steps, you can easily get started on a brand-new path, which will bring big changes to your health," shares Dr Mosima Mabunda, the head of wellness at Discovery Vitality.

"When you start small, there is no undue pressure of failure - just keep trying," she adds. 

With the festive season here, sticking to good choices when it comes to healthy eating can be difficult. 

"Managing weight can be challenging, but it's necessary for good health," says Mabunda. "We all know the holiday season means fun, food and celebrations. It's possible to enjoy the holidays without overindulging while starting a new year in better health."

Below, Mabunda shares hacks to help you eat healthier this holiday:

1. Bring and share better options

"When invited to a party, offer to bring a healthy dish to ensure nutritious options are available. Try [a] watermelon, olive and feta salad from Vitality's HealthyFood Studio for a healthy side dish."

READ MORE | Dietician shares the truth about your roast gammon and other Christmas favourites

2. Limit sweet treats 

"If craving a sweet treat, choose the dessert from nature: fresh fruit. Also, skip the fruit juice and rather eat whole fruit."

3. Start with veggies 

"Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, like broccoli or green beans. It will keep you feeling full for longer with less kilojoules."

4. Take a short walk after meals

"This can help with digestion and lower blood sugar levels."

READ MORE | Why do I feel so hungry all the time? How to avoid this all-too-common dieting pitfall

5. Prioritise sleep 

"Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep at night to guard against mindless eating and cravings for high-fat, high-sugar foods."