CONTENTS WELL-BEING BENEFITS | 20 AVOID OVERINDULGING THIS SILLY SEASON EXCESSIVE FOOD AND ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD CAN TAKE A TOLL ON YOUR WEIGHT AND WELL‑BEING. WE EXPLORE HOW TO MASTER MODERATION THIS UPCOMING PARTY SEASON. By Julia Lamberti WHY THE FESTIVITIES GO TOO FAR… It is no secret that many people struggle to take a balanced approach to what they eat and drink during the festive season, says Estée van Lingen, a Johannesburg-based registered dietitian. “This is because people are a lot more relaxed and there isn’t much structure or routine during this time,” she explains. “People also feel like they were “good” during the year and now just want to let loose a bit and enjoy themselves,” she adds. In addition, there are more functions and social gatherings during this period and most of these do not cater for healthy eating. We also tend to snack more and indulge in bigger meals, sweets and puddings during the festive period. Furthermore, many of us struggle to maintain a regular eating schedule and often exercise less when on holiday. This can make it easier for extra holiday weight to creep up on you. Imbibing more
Table of contents