Christmas is traditionally a time when many of us pile on the pounds, but with a little forward planning, you can also make January – the traditional time for losing that extra weight – much easier.

That’s the philosophy of Mary Iginla, Project Co-ordinator for the Joy of Food, who believes that having a strategy during the party season can reap rewards in the long run.

Mary said: “Christmas is time when we all like to party, and that often includes plenty of food and drink. Don’t feel that you have to miss out – by following just a few of these tips you’ll make your New Year easier. Make sure you enjoy the splash-out of the traditional festive season which is from December 24 to January 6, not to mid January.


“It’s also a good time to remember how many meals can be provided by one Christmas roast. The butcher can tell you how long your joint will take to cook. An average chicken takes about 1.5 hours. Remember you can use the carcass to make stock and soup afterwards.”

Here are Mary’s ten top tips:

1. At a party, try not to stand next to the buffet where it is easy to keep picking at food. If you have no option, hold a glass in one hand and a plate in the other – it won’t be so easy to keep picking. Watch out for those fried morsels and pastry treats when making your selection! Try to buy mince pies that aren’t made of thick pastry as well.

2. Try to maintain as much of your regular eating routine as possible. Make sure you have a good breakfast – particularly if you’re going out to a Christmas party later in the day.

3. When you choose food from the party menu, try to avoid the creamy sauces, and opt for tomato-based sauces and French dressings instead. Avoid pastry dishes and gateau, and don’t overdo the cheese board. Don’t feel you have to eat everything, unless it’s a vegetable, which includes sprouts.

4. Keep your fluid levels up. Drink water regularly, and don’t skip meals during the day. If you’re hungry, you’re more likely to opt for high-calorie foods.

5. Eat slowly. We often eat more when we eat quickly. Take your time with your meal, and enjoy it!

6. Remember that alcohol contains calories too, particularly those creamy liqueurs we are more likely to choose in the festive period.

7. Make a shopping list. It’s easy to get sidetracked into buying the best Christmas food bargains – and then feel you have to eat it all when you get home! A list means you’re prepared, and less likely to buy food on impulse.

8. Try to restrict sugar to meal times rather than in between meals. It will be better for your waistline – and your teeth. If you’re a grandparent, try not to supply too many sweets and chocolates to your grandchildren as presents. Think about choosing a gift that lasts longer like a book, a game you can play with them, or a DVD. Satsumas and pineapple are in season now and can provide a delicious, and sweet, alternative.

9. There’s more than one way to say “no”. “Maybe I’ll have one later” is easier to say than “Sorry I’m not allowed”, and still a polite way to refuse extra portions.

10. Walk off those calories! Walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise, and can be a really enjoyable part of the festive season, especially a brisk walk on the beach before going back to the leftovers.

Mary added: “Christmas is a fantastic time of year. We don’t want to be killjoys, and are keen for everyone to have a good time. Remembering at least some of these simple tips can just make life easier in January, and hopefully lead to a happy – and healthier – New Year.”

The Joy of Food is a community based programme funded by the Big Lottery, hosted by NHS Norfolk, to increase fruit and vegetable consumption by teaching basic food skills and raising awareness of the social pleasure of food. For more details, call 01603 257219.