Egg-Cellent Tips To Beat The Easter Bulge

Easter equals chocolate. Mmm chocolate. But there are also long lunches, hot-cross buns aplenty and no shortage of delicious bubbly. You can’t deny it, the extra-long weekend is fun, but it can also tempt the strongest of wellness warriors into overindulging.  And, as we all know, the extra Easter kilos don’t disappear with the Easter Bunny. But, I’m here to tell you that while it may seem tough, it is possible to get through Easter without throwing away all your healthy habits.

Keep Up Your Routine

Exercising during the holidays can be tough. Try smashing out your workout first thing in the morning – you’re more likely to actually complete it if you’re not in a food coma. Also, try and team up with a friend and hit the gym, grab your hiking boots or lay out your yoga mat.  You’re less likely to skip a gym session if you have someone else to be accountable to.

Go to the Dark Side

If the Easter Bunny takes requests, and I’m pretty sure he does, ask for the dark chocolate egg as opposed to milk or white chocolate. Not only is it more flavoursome, it is actually healthier for you!

Dark chocolate contains less calories and is full of polyphenols, which have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.

Think Outside the (chocolate) Box

If you are looking to make a couple of healthy switches this Easter, do not fear, your options are endless! Instead of eggs, try strawberries dipped in chocolate, instead of store bought hot-cross buns, try baking your own. And if you’re looking for a little inspiration, check out these amazing sweets & treats, they’ll give the Easter bunny a run for his money I can assure you.

Beware of the Booze

It’s sad but true, alcohol does in fact add unnecessary kilojoules to your diet. If you do choose to drink, opt for clear spirits with soda water and fresh lime, and avoid sugary cocktails. Also note that alcohol lowers your inhibitions (and your willpower) around food and can cause you to eat more than your fair share of Easter eggs. So be wary party people.

Pace Yourself

With so much delicious food on offer, it’s hard to say no to seconds (and thirds), but it is important to pace yourself. The quicker you eat, the less time the body has to register that it is full. So slow down, chew slowly and wait before reaching for another helping – you may find that you don’t actually need it!

Shrink your Servings

Quality not quantity, that’s what I always say. And this philosophy is especially relevant at Easter time. If you’re in desperate need of a chocolate fix, opt for a couple of squares of good quality dark chocolate instead of entire box of Favourites. You’ll get your hit without all the extra calories.

Share your Spoils

If you were a tad spoilt over Easter, do not feel as though you need to eat all of the treats in order to clear out the fridge. Take any extras into work, re-gift chocolates to friends and family, basically, share the love and the chocolate around!

Indulge

I’m sure you can all get behind this one! Restricting your diet over the holidays is just not smart, or fun. Giving in to your cravings – in moderation – can minimise your desire to go on a full-on chocolate binge sesh. So, have the double-choc hot-cross bun if you really want it, just don’t go overboard!

While it’s important not to throw away all your healthy habits during the Easter period, just remember not to beat yourself up if you do give in and eat that truffle or miss a workout. Life is about balance after-all, right?