Unlock the secrets: enjoy the festive season guilt-free and stay fit
The festive season is a time for celebration, connection, and yes, indulgence. The essence lies in enjoying these moments mindfully.
Image: Jane T D. /pexels
The festive season is here, glittering lights, irresistible spreads, and indulgent nights are calling. But with the joy of celebration often comes the guilt of overindulgence. Sound familiar?
The good news is, you can enjoy the festivities guilt-free while keeping your health (and waistline) on track.
Renowned nutritionist and lifestyle coach, Angelique Daubermann, better known as "The Lean Girl," knows this all too well. With her relatable, no-nonsense approach to health, Daubermann has built a thriving community of women who want to lose fat, stay strong, and still enjoy the foods they love.
As the founder of Lean Girl Kitchen Coach and the Lean Body Lab, she’s here to share practical tips for navigating the holiday food frenzy.
Here are her top strategies to help you indulge responsibly and bounce back like a true "comeback queen" after all the holiday cheer.
1. Big night out? Hydrate first
After a night of cocktails and canapés, your body is likely crying out for hydration. The secret sauce? Three booze-free days post-party to give your liver a break.
During this time, drink plenty of water, and don’t forget to add electrolytes for an extra recovery boost. Think of it as your body’s reset button. Hydration is key to feeling human again.
The festive season is a time for celebration, connection, and yes, indulgence. The essence lies in enjoying these moments mindfully.
Image: Nutritionist Angelique Daubermann/Facebook
2. Overdid it on chocolate? No Judgement, just reset
You’ve enjoyed one too many truffles or polished off a box of festive treats, don’t sweat it. Your next meal is your chance to get back on track. Angelique recommends sticking to a 300-400 calorie, protein-packed meal with something green on the side.
A grilled chicken salad or scrambled eggs with spinach works wonders. It’s not about punishment; it’s just balance.
3. Dessert lover? Choose your indulgence wisely
You can absolutely have that slice of pie or creamy dessert, just skip the extras at dinner. For example, swap out the wine or dinner rolls to make room for your sweet treat.
According to Daubermann, “You can have it all, just not all at once.” Moderation is your holiday superpower.
If you’ve enjoyed one too many festive chocolates, don’t dwell on it. Instead, look to your next meal as an opportunity to reset.
Image: Nutritionist Angelique Daubermann.
4. Cocktail party survival tip: Prep before you sip
Heading to a party where the snacks are unpredictable? Eat a lean, satisfying dinner before you go. Daubermann’s go-to pre-party meal is light but filling, like a stir-fry or grilled fish with veggies.
When it comes to drinks, opt for something simple and low-calorie. Her go to’s are simple: Champagne, dry wine or a sugar-free G&T.
Heading to a gathering where snack choices are unpredictable? Be proactive and eat a lean, satisfying dinner beforehand.
Image: Angelique Daubermann.
5. Leftovers tempting you? Outsource or freeze them
Holiday leftovers can be a blessing or a curse. If you know you can’t resist another slice of cake or extra stuffing, give them away or freeze them immediately. Out of sight, out of mind, right?
Share the love with someone who isn’t calorie-conscious, or save them for a special occasion.
Out of sight, out of mind is a proven strategy.
Image: Angelique Daubermann.
6. The “one YOLO day” rule
One day of indulgence is fine, it’s the holidays, after all! But the trick is not to let it turn into two or three days of overeating. “Make like a goldfish,” Daubermann writes on Facebook.
Forget the slip-up, and get back to your basic meals the next day. A single day won’t derail your progress, but consistency will keep you on track.
7. Feeling MEH? Move your body anyway
If you’re feeling sluggish after too much food or drink, don’t let it define your day. Movement is magic. Go for a walk, stretch, or do a quick 20-minute workout. Physical activity not only helps burn calories but also boosts your mood and energy.
Daubermann swears by the power of a simple walk to feel like yourself again.
8. Travelling or staying with family? Set the tone
The holidays often mean staying with family or travelling, where food choices might feel out of your control. But remember you’re the boss of your body. Pack some healthy snacks, suggest nutritious meals, and maybe even inspire others to join your lean lifestyle.
9. Cravings hitting hard? Have a high-protein sweet treat
When the sugar cravings hit, resist the urge to grab another cookie. Instead, treat yourself to a sweet, protein-packed snack under 300 calories, such as Greek yoghurt with berries or a protein bar. It’s satisfying and keeps you from spiralling into a sugar coma.
10. Perfection is a myth
Lastly, let’s bust the myth of perfection. No one eats “perfectly” during the holidays, and that’s okay. “Just do your best,” says Daubermann. “Your best will look different every day, and that’s enough.”
The festive season is a time for joy, connection, and yes, indulgence. The key is to enjoy it mindfully.