5 Smart Swaps For The Festive Season
We’re not here to tell you not to indulge at Christmas time. In fact, we’re advocates of embracing all the fun of the festive season whilst enjoying every tasty morsel that comes with it. However, we know how much of a struggle it can be when a few too many mince pies and mulled wines leaves you feeling sluggish, cranky and ready for a mid-afternoon nap. So, we’ve got five smart swaps that will help you combat that lethargy and give your diet a little more balance…
Mince Pies for Breakfast > Mince Pie Oats
During the holidays, usual habits and eating routines tend to go out the window. What starts on the 1st December with enjoying your advent calendar chocolate alongside your normal breakfast, turns into starting the day with mince pies and a dollop of brandy butter just because someone says; “screw it, it’s Christmas!”. Luckily for you, you can have the best of both worlds with this bowl of oatmeal – it tastes like mince pies, but still set you up for the day ahead…
Get the recipe, here.
Afternoon Christmas Cake > Gingerbread Banana Bread
Pop round to Grandma’s, Aunt Karen’s or to see your old school friend and as soon as the kettle goes on, the biscuits and several dense slabs of Christmas cake start pouring out the kitchen. If you’ve already had your fill of marzipan and icing (or just want to enjoy something a little bit different) whip up our gingerbread banana bread to take with you on family visits or to have at hand for any unexpected guests. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy with a good brew.
Get the recipe, here.
Cream Dips > Hummus
Likewise, Christmas parties are heavy with ‘nibbles’ and there comes a point where even we want to say enough is enough with the chips and dip. Swap creamy dips for hummus for a lighter taste and higher protein content. Even better? Pair with crudités to get in some much-needed veggies.
Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows & Cream > Peppermint Hot Chocolate
We’re not going to patronise you by explaining why a hot chocolate with whipped cream and marshmallows isn’t the most nutritionally dense of choices. But we love a good hot chocolate for quelling our sweet tooth or to give us those cosy Christmas feels. Which is why we’ve created our very own peppermint version with less sugar, more protein.
Find the recipe, here.
Mulled wine > Red wine
During the days around Christmas when booze seems to be on a never-ending stream, sometimes it can be a good idea to choose your drinks wisely. Although delicious, mulled wine can pack a serious sugar punch, so stick to regular red wine with most meals and the mulled version for the odd treat.