Christmas is a time for family, celebration, and of course, plenty of delicious food! It’s completely fine to enjoy your favourite festive treats — balance, not restriction, is the key. Here are some easy ways to make the most of the season while still looking after your health.

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Eat, Enjoy, and Balance

You don’t need to miss out on mince pies or roast potatoes — just try to balance them with lighter choices through the week.

• Start the day right: A healthy breakfast (like porridge or yogurt with fruit) helps stop snacking later.
• Fill half your plate with veg: Christmas dinner can be colourful and healthy with sprouts, carrots, peas, and parsnips.
• Go easy on extras: Gravy, sauces, and creamy sides add flavour but also extra salt and fat — a little goes a long way.

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Sweet Treats and Snacks

It’s perfectly fine to enjoy sweets, puddings, and chocolates — just remember that moderation keeps you feeling your best.
Try mixing festive favourites with healthier snacks like fruit, nuts, or a few squares of dark chocolate.

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If You Have Diabetes

Christmas can still be enjoyable — it just takes a little planning.

• Don’t skip meals to “save up” for a big dinner — it can make blood sugars harder to manage.
• Keep an eye on portions, especially with sugary foods and drinks.
• Choose high-fibre foods like vegetables, beans, and whole grains to help balance your blood sugar.
• If you’re drinking alcohol, have it with food and alternate with water or sugar-free drinks.
• Most importantly, enjoy yourself — one special day won’t undo your good habits.

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Top 5 Tips for a Diabetes-Friendly Christmas

1. Keep snacks like unsalted nuts or vegetable sticks handy for between meals.
2. Have a small pudding portion and savour it slowly.
3. Take a short walk after big meals to help digestion and blood sugar control.
4. Test your blood sugars if advised — it can help you learn what works best.
5. Focus on fun, family, and rest — not just food!

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Keep Moving

Between the Christmas films and food, try to stay active:

• Go for a family walk after lunch.
• Have a dance while wrapping gifts or cooking.
• Play outdoor games with the kids (weather permitting!).

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Most Important of All

Enjoy the season! Good food, laughter, and time with loved ones are all part of a healthy life. One indulgent week won’t undo your healthy habits — it’s what you do most of the time that matters.

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