Whether you are going on a vacation or staycation, December holidays in South Africa are usually full of festivities and social events—making it easier to overindulge. Even though you might socialise more over the festive season, it doesn’t have to come with weight gain.

If you make smart choices, you will not go into the new year with extra baggage. Use the tips below to stay healthy during this holiday season.

Stick to a routine

It is easy to deviate from structured mealtimes and your usual fitness routine when in festive mode. To ensure that you do not have to make unrealistic new year’s resolutions in January, try not to let exercise and healthy mealtimes slip from your routine. Try to exercise early in the morning to keep your metabolism up and to ensure that your social activities do not get in the way of an active and healthy lifestyle.

Stay active

With that being said, it is not always possible to stick to your usual fitness regime when on holiday. Therefore, try to squeeze in small physical activities during the day—even if it is just for 10 minutes at a time. Stay active by walking to the shops, swimming in the pool or ocean, taking the stairs instead of an elevator, or hiking with family and friends.

If you’re not sure where to begin, USN has various training plans that can be downloaded from our website.

Remember to sleep enough

Sleep deprivation has a negative impact on your metabolism and health, which can ultimately lead to weight gain. A study published by the National Library of Medicine has confirmed that sleep deprivation can alter your brain activity making you crave high-calorie and unhealthy food. Another reason to get sufficient sleep: when you stay up late, you also tend to snack late at night.

If you struggle to fall asleep, try Switch Off—an advanced nootropic sleeping aid that helps induce sleep and enhances restful and restorative sleep.

Drink smart

It is no secret that alcohol can weaken your inhibitions—and we’re not only talking about the ability to make clear decisions here. Liquid calories can add up quickly, as there are hidden calories in a lot of drinks. Instead of drinking cocktails, combine water with lemon and mint or calorie-free drinks. If you decide to drink alcoholic beverages, opt for spirits mixed with sugar-free drinks or wine mixed with soda water.

Snack wisely

You might find it difficult to keep track of what you eat when you nibble on different snacks and canapes. Therefore, rather count your canapes and snacks by putting it on a small plate.

If you feel like snacking, try USN’s Diet Fuel 99 Kcal Ultralean Bar. With only 99 calories, it is the perfect high-protein, low-calorie, guilt-free bar to snack on during a busy day or before a night out.

Fill up on fibre

It can be challenging to make healthy food a priority when socialising more, eating different desserts and sweets, and enjoying alcoholic beverages more than usual. An unhealthy diet can disrupt your digestive system, making it crucial to add fibre-rich foods to your diet during this holiday season. Fibre can also make you feel fuller for longer, promotes a healthy gut and digestive tract, and encourages regular bowel movements. Remember to add nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables, oats and whole-grain foods to the menu when planning a snack table.

Do not fast and feast

Some people think that if they skip meals and save their appetite for a big dinner, they will not gain weight. This is not the best strategy because by the time you are ready to eat, you will be starving and as a result, most likely overindulge. If you really want to reserve calories, rather try an intermittent fasting approach.

Try USN’ Intermittent Fasting Eating Plans for Men and Women.

Stay hydrated

Hunger is often mistaken for dehydration. Without adequate hydration, you can feel tired, hungry and sluggish. Drink enough water to keep you hydrated, especially after a night out in the town.

Add USN’s Zero Sugar Hydrator for that extra hydration, whether before or after a social event. Zero Sugar Hydration is an instant rehydration, precision-balanced athletic drink that replaces electrolytes and phosphates and reduces the risk of cramping.