Getting fit this Christmas, you must!

It’s only seven days to go before Christmas. And for those who are trying to control or manage their weight, it is the most challenging time of the year. Invitations to parties and get-togethers come in left and right. Actually for others, it starts as early as in the first week of December. Once a week, then it progress to two times or thrice a week, and then as Christmas gets closer, it becomes almost every day.

Here are some tips that will help you enjoy all those yummy foods and mouth-watering treats, but still able to maintain or at least keep you in tip-top shape this Christmas.

QUALITY: Firstly, quality refers to how the food is cooked. Second, what kind of meat is used and third is the condiments used in cooking or the adds on. Some may think that because they are eating mixed vegetables, then they can eat a lot but most of the vegetables are smothered with oil and butter. Sweet and sour fish could be healthy because it is seafood, but sweet and sour is usually deep-fried fish then deep with heavy thick sauce with lots of sugar. Grilled or steamed fish would be a better choice. Roasted beef is high in protein but most of the roasted beef when served is again topped with thick sauce or gravy, some may even have more sauce than the roasted beef itself. I usually recommend to eat the roasted beef as is, without the sauce and choose the less marbled portion. Then here’s our all-time favorite lechon! Lechon is highly recommended for me during party because it is roasted but again you have to choose the part wisely! Skin maybe the best part but beneath the skin is a layer of fat, take the fat out and still eat in moderation. As for the meat, choose the leaner portion and take out the fatty part.

FREQUENCY:You have to eat at least six to eight small meals a day. Some skips  breakfast, even their lunch and afternoon snack knowing that they have a party in the evening.

QUANTITY: It does not mean that if it’s is a healthier choice, then you can binge on it. If you follow the frequency of eating 6 to 8 small meals a day, the quantity of food usually automatically lessens because you are still full.

During a party, survey the buffet table first.  Don't rush, have a seat and let others get their food first. Slowly drink 2 glasses of water. Be mindful of what you get. Remember the quality of food (how it was cooked and condiments) and the serving size. After eating your appetizer or salad, have 2 glasses of water again before proceeding to your main course.

It’s 7 days to go before Christmas, don't celebrate each day like there is no tomorrow. Be mindful of what you eat. Always keep in mind that it is 70% Nutrition and 30% Exercise.  Quality, Frequency and Quantity in your food intake!

Next week, I will give you tips on what exercises you can do at home to keep you fit during this Christmas holiday.

SIDELINE: Tune in to Y101 this Tuesday, December 22 at  8 a.m.  for the launching of the CLIP2FIT lose to win promo. “Tell the world it ain’t impossible to lose weight in a holiday season plus a chance of winning cash prize!”