NAVIGATING HOLIDAY FEASTS: PORTION CONTROL AND PROTEIN

The festive season is a time for family, relaxation, and indulging in a few seasonal favourites—but it doesn’t need to throw your nutrition goals completely off course. Finding a balance between enjoying yourself and staying on track is easier than you might think. Here’s how to approach holiday meals with confidence and a plan.

Start with a Strategy
​Turning up to a festive dinner without a plan is like attempting a WOD without a warm-up—you’re asking for trouble. Before you dive in, take a moment to assess what’s on offer. Have a quick scan of the table, spot the best protein options, and build your plate with purpose.

Prioritise Protein
Protein is the hero of the meal. It keeps you feeling full, supports muscle repair, and ensures you’re giving your body what it needs—even if your training schedule takes a bit of a hit over the holidays.

When you’re filling your plate, make protein the star. Go for options like turkey, chicken, beef, fish, or even plant-based proteins such as lentils or beans if that’s what’s available. Starting with protein not only helps you stay satisfied but also reduces the temptation to overload on other foods.

Portion Control: Balance Over Excess
It’s easy to get carried away with everything on offer, but remember—you don’t need to try everything all at once. Treat your plate like a well-planned training session: balanced, intentional, and focused on your goals.

Here are a few tips:

• Use the Plate Method: Aim to fill half your plate with vegetables, a quarter with protein, and the other quarter with starchy carbs like roast potatoes, stuffing, or parsnips.
• Start Small: Begin with smaller portions, and if you’re genuinely still hungry after, you can go back for seconds.
• Take Your Time: Eating slowly allows your brain to catch up with your stomach, helping you feel satisfied before you’ve overdone it.

Tackle Puddings Sensibly
Let’s face it, festive puddings are hard to resist. But there’s no need to avoid them altogether. Whether it’s mince pies, Christmas pudding, or a slice of Yule log, pick your favourite and enjoy it in moderation. For extra balance, pair it with something like Greek yoghurt to help keep your blood sugar in check and make the treat more satisfying.

Keep the Bigger Picture in Mind
One indulgent meal isn’t going to undo all your hard work, but a whole month of overeating might. Focus on what you can control, stay active, and remember why you started on this journey in the first place.

The festive season is about connection, celebration, and creating memories. You can fully enjoy it while keeping your goals in sight by making mindful choices. As with training, it’s about showing up with intention and giving it your best effort - even when the circumstances aren’t ideal.

So, embrace the holidays, savour the moments, and enjoy every bite - without losing sight of what matters most to you.

​
Book a free Consultation at CrossFit Wolfram today by clicking this link: https://www.crossfit-wolfram.com/nosweatintro-767787.html.

​We’re excited to welcome you to the CrossFit Wolfram community and support you on your journey to better health and fitness!