How to enjoy the holidays without overeating: tips from Dr. Mihaela Martin, team Doctor Dejeu

The winter holidays are a time when family, traditional meals and festive atmosphere come together perfectly. At Christmas time, the smell of freshly baked cake and lovingly cabbage rolls dominate every home, and the turn of the year brings not only champagne but also generous portions of food. In addition, St. John for Orthodox Christians prolongs this festive period.

To ensure that the joy of these moments is not overshadowed by the effects of too heavy meals, balance is key. Dr. Mihaela Martin, a nutritionist and dietician with the Doctor Dejeu team, stresses that “we must not give up tradition, but find ways to adapt recipes so that we can enjoy them without affecting our health or our figure.”

How to prepare traditional dishes in a healthier way?

  1. Choose lean meat

Traditional dishes such as cabbage rolls, (pork meat) pudding or meat jelly can be transformed by simply choosing leaner meats such as chicken or turkey. “Fatty pork can be successfully replaced with lighter versions that not only reduce calorie intake but are also easier to digest,” explains Dr. Martin.

  1. Cook roast in the oven without using oil

Opt for lean cuts of meat and cook them in the oven. Combine with fresh salads or pickles, avoiding heavy side dishes like potatoes.

  1. Lighter beef salad

Beef salad can be a good friend to your health if you reduce the amount of mayonnaise or use a lighter version. Dr. Martin also suggests another trick: “Replace mayonnaise in recipes with 2% Greek yogurt. It’s a suitable alternative that maintains the flavor of the dish but reduces the fat.”

Maintain your daily routine

One aspect often neglected over the festive period is keeping an eating routine. “It’s very important to stick to regular meal times, even if we wake up later. If you skip breakfast, for example, try to compensate without squeezing other meals into shorter intervals,” advises Dr. Martin.

Physical activity – the perfect balance

Even in this busy period, movement should not be absent, points out Dr. Mihaela Martin: “Don’t leave sports out of your daily routine. If you’re on vacation, you can take leisurely long walks, explore the areas you’re in, or simply take advantage of hotel facilities such as the fitness room or spa.

How to avoid overeating?

Separate dishes: Avoid having appetizers, main course, dessert and alcohol at the same meal. “Our digestive system is not prepared for such a combination. Eat these dishes one at a time, in small portions”. 

Include raw vegetables and pickles: These are high in fiber and aid digestion.

Sweets have a limit: Opt for fresh fruit instead of cakes with heavy creams.

The holidays are not just about food and drink, but also quality time spent with family and friends. “Enjoy the good times with your loved ones, but don’t forget about your health… By carefully choosing what and how much to eat, you can turn your festive meals into the perfect occasions to celebrate balance and looking after your own health.”

Doctor DejeuDr. Mihaela Martinholidaysovereating
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