Healthy Christmas

Christmas is a time for cosy moments with family, but it’s also a season filled with tempting treats, indulgent feasts, and long evenings spent on the sofa. Striking the right balance between enjoyment and health can be a challenge. Solveig Haw, a doctor and health expert at DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung AG, shares her tips on how to make it work.

Mindful Eating During Advent and Christmas

Sweets and hearty meals are as much a part of Christmas as candles and Christmas trees. As with so many things, moderation is key. “If you deliberately serve biscuits with afternoon tea and keep the tin closed at other times, you’ve already taken an important step,” explains Solveig Haw. Festive meals like roast goose or duck can be made healthier by adding more vegetables, serving smaller portions, or choosing recipes with less fat. Mulled wine, punch and other alcoholic drinks often contain a lot of sugar and calories. Here too, it’s all about the quantity. Alcohol-free alternatives or water alongside wine can help you stay balanced.

Balancing Indulgence with Fresh Air and Activity

With the days being short and cold, and family visits often involving long hours at the table or on the sofa, exercise can fall by the wayside. “A walk together after a meal not only helps your circulation, but also aids digestion,” says Haw. “Gentle movement can reduce spikes in blood sugar after eating and boost your overall sense of well-being.” Winter activities like sledging, ice skating, or a snowball fight combine fun, family time and exercise, benefiting both body and mind.

Enjoyment in Moderation and with Mindfulness

To truly savour festive meals, it helps to eat slowly and mindfully. Not only does this allow you to enjoy the flavours, but it also gives your body time to register when you’re full—usually after about 15 to 20 minutes. Smaller portions can prevent the urge to clear your plate. Delicious desserts don’t have to be loaded with sugar and calories; there are plenty of tasty recipes featuring fruit. Many families finish a festive meal with a digestif, but, as Haw points out, “The idea that alcohol aids digestion is a myth. Alcohol actually slows digestion, puts strain on the liver, and is high in calories. Herbal tea or a gentle stroll are much better options.”

Avoiding Christmas Stress

Christmas stress can be minimised with realistic planning and by allowing time for downtime. It’s a good idea to start preparations early and trim your to-do list. “Less is more and taking short breaks now and then helps recharge your batteries,” advises Haw. A structured plan with plenty of flexibility provides a helpful overview and lets you approach the festive season with greater peace of mind.