Christmas is often a time of indulgence and many of us await the excuse to enjoy the feasts that come with Christmas Day.
However, the traditional holiday spread often leans towards overdoing it, leading to the notorious post-feast food coma — post-dinner nap anyone?
To best navigate the holidays without sacrificing wellness, food researchers at Menu Price share the healthiest breakfast options to beat that lethargic feeling.
1. Protein Power
A nutritious Christmas Day breakfast you say?
“Opting for lean sources such as eggs, Greek yoghurt, or smoked salmon in the morning can do wonders for surviving the treats to come throughout the rest of the day.
These protein-rich options not only keep you fuller for longer but also stabilise blood sugar levels, preventing those dreaded energy crashes associated with high-sugar breakfasts,” say the experts.
2. Healthy Fats
Including healthy fats in your breakfast can contribute to a sense of satisfaction and provide sustained energy.
“Those who love avocado toast, it’s good news. Avocados, nuts, and seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats.
These nutrient-dense additions enhance the flavour of your breakfast whilst promoting overall well-being,” recommend the experts.
3. Hydration Hero
Start your Christmas Day on a hydrating note by consuming plenty of water, if you’ll be consuming alcohol or plenty of sugary/salty foods.
“Adding a slice of lemon or cucumber can enhance the flavour while providing a refreshing kick.
Staying well-hydrated supports digestion and helps prevent the dehydration often associated with indulgent holiday meals,” added the experts.
4. Gut Health
Incorporating fibre into your Christmas breakfast is key to supporting digestive health and keeping hunger at bay throughout the day which causes us to snack incessantly.
Whole grains, such as oats or whole-grain toast, along with fruits like berries or bananas, are excellent choices.
5. Portions
While the temptation to indulge in festive treats is strong, maintaining portion control is crucial for a healthy start to the day.
A nutritionally balanced breakfast should encompass a variety of food groups, ensuring you receive an array of vital nutrients.
6. Fruit Salad
A great way to get in your five a day, opting for a bowl of fresh fruits as part of your Christmas breakfast is a nice way to get some healthy sugars in, without feasting on your festive chocolates early.
7. Timing Is Key
Experts recommend eating your Christmas breakfast at a reasonable time to establish a healthy eating pattern for the day.
“Starting your day late can lead to a snowball effect, often finding many of us eating later as the day goes on.
Consuming a well-balanced breakfast not only jump-starts your metabolism but also sets a positive tone for making mindful food choices later in the day,” the experts recommend.
