Easter is synonymous with chocolate eggs and treats, and more than likely your Easter long weekend will be featuring a little indulgence. We caught up with Marianne Hudson, MACROS Dietitian and Head Nutritionist, for her top five tips for enjoying the holiday without overindulging.
1. Pick your favourite treat
There’s something special about Easter chocolate and it’s not available year round, so why not treat yourself! Choose quality over quantity, you may as well enjoy the best chocolate for your budget. A good chocolate will generally contain better quality cocoa beans and cocoa butter (and likely taste better!). Dark chocolate is a great choice for those who like it – not only is it higher in antioxidants, and lower in sugar than milk and white chocolate, but due to its richness, it can also leave you feeling more satisfied with smaller amounts. But if milk and white chocolate is your jam, then choose that instead, because you know you’ll enjoy it and having your fix should satisfy the craving.
2. Savour the moment
Choose a couple of smaller chocolate eggs rather than a larger one, as they are already portion controlled. Take some time out and focus on the chocolate you’re consuming without distractions. Make yourself a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy your treat more mindfully by focussing on the sensory experience – notice the flavour, aroma, texture and even the sound of the food, savouring every last bite!
3. Create healthier treats
If you’re looking for some alternative sweet treats to whip up over the Easter break, I find that chocolate dipped fruit is always a hit! It means you can satisfy that sweet tooth with a little added nutrients. Easter egg shaped bliss balls are another fun idea. They’re relatively quick and simple to throw together and you can get creative with the flavour combinations. Some of my Easter favourites include hot cross bun or carrot cake- flavoured bliss balls, or you can come up with your own mix of dried fruits, cacao nibs, nuts, grains, seeds and cocoa powder.
4. Find a healthy balance
Increase your energy expenditure by planning social events around movement or the outdoors to ensure you’re keeping physically active during this period. Don’t skip meals in favour of less healthy snacks and treats – stick to your regular eating routine if possible, and have a sufficient breakfast including a good source of protein to ensure you keep satiated throughout the day. This can mean you’ll be less inclined to over-indulge in between meals.
Eggs are a great breakfast option for Easter (very much on theme), they’re a great source of protein and can be paired with other healthy ingredients like grainy toast, tomato, and avocado. I recommend stocking up your fridge with plenty of healthy snacks and ready-meals to restore some balance. Having something on hand when you get home can mean that you’re less likely to reach for the quick-fix treats, or the takeout menu.
Meal delivery services like MACROS provide fresh, well balanced, dietitian-designed meals delivered straight to your door, and are great for busy bodies, particularly for those out and about over the long weekend.
5. Get back to routine
Try to get back into your normal eating habits as soon as you can to avoid perpetuating unhealthy eating behaviours. Donate any excess chocolate gifts to close family and friends, and if you decide to hang on to the chocolate stash, keep them out of sight in the pantry as you’ll be less likely to reach for it.
Remember that Easter is a once a year celebration, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you find that you’ve eaten way more than you planned to. Food should be about enjoyment and nourishment, and it’s what you eat on most days that truly counts!
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
