Eating out has become somewhat of a challenge, with Sally not eating carbs and Rushda having gone vegan. Not to mention the Banter, the paleo-dieter and the Atkins follower who also wants to follow suit. With all of these differing views on diets and food, it becomes easy to judge others on their food choices. But for your own sanity, here’s how to avoid the criticism and focus on enjoying your food instead.

By Jana du Plessis

We want YOU
Every person has a different genetic make-up, so what works for one person won’t be beneficial for the next. The way we respond to food is an individual thing, so it only makes sense to adapt our diets accordingly. If you find that eating less meat makes you feel more energetic and healthy, don’t look down on your friend who thrives on large amounts of protein. Our lifestyles are never exactly the same, which means we have entirely different nutrient needs.

Changing views
If you find yourself constantly peeking at what others are eating and making assessments on whether or not you consider it a healthy choice to eat, stop those thoughts in their tracks and rather turn to your own meal. If you consider your diet to be healthy, nutrient-dense and nourishing for your body, would you want someone questioning your choices? If the foods you enjoy are fuelling you the right way, it shouldn’t matter what your friend next to you decides to power up with through the day.

Making peace
Don’t be afraid to share your reasons, tips and motivations for eating the way you do, but make an effort to be receptive to other lifestyles and diet choices. No matter the diet or food preference, there is always something to learn from each. The goal is to prioritise your healthy habits, not break others down. Let’s celebrate our bio-individuality!

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It’s the end of the year and inevitably our calendars are filling up with end-year celebrations and social gatherings. While this season’s fun-filled nights with their tasty snacks and complementary booze sound promising, it also makes keeping up healthy eating habits a whole lot harder. Here are our top tips to enjoy the party without giving up on your health the next day.

By Jana du Plessis

1. Hydration is key

Our bodies are mostly made up of water – a clear indicator that it’s vital for us to stay hydrated on any given day. But add in the dehydrating effects of alcohol and our need to fill up on H2O becomes of even more important. Aim for drinking at least eight glasses of water throughout the day and alternate every alcoholic beverage with a glass of water.

2. Fuel with fruit and veg

The chance that you will be offered a balanced plate with nutrient-dense food at a party isn’t likely, so be sure to replenish the deficit the day after. Skip the greasy pizza or oily fries – these won’t do much for your mind or your body after a boozy night out. Rather add extra veggies and fruits to your meals to up your nutrient-intake and fuel up.

3. Keep portions in check

A hefty meal might be the soothing comfort you are looking for after one drink too many last night, but you don’t want to burden your body with more hard work. Your body will already be dealing with the extra calories and toxins from the alcohol and party snacks, so take it easy on your digestion by keeping meals slightly smaller. You’ll feel better snacking on a piece of fruit in between meals than feeling overly stuffed and fragile.

4. Kick the caffeine

Or try to, at least. Coffee is a diuretic and can worsen the symptoms of dehydration. If you cannot skip your morning pick-me-up, limit your coffee cups to one or two for the day and sip on tea instead.

5. Get moving

Even if just getting out of bed feels like a struggle, staying active will help with a faster recovery and help burn off that second helping of dessert you couldn’t resist. If you don’t feel like an intense sweat-sesh at the gym, a brisk 30-minute walk will still do wonders for your mind and body.

The post 5 tips to party it up this season without losing your healthy eating habits appeared first on MyKitchen.