The holidays are here, and let’s be honest, there will be a lot of feasting and eating, and delicious food will be calling your name. From jollof to small chops to that one aunt’s legendary chicken, free drinks and occasions here and there, temptation is everywhere.
But here’s the truth: you can still enjoy all the goodness without ending the year overeating or overdrinking.
Here are a few smart habits to help you stay within a safe limit, satisfied, and energised.
- Be Selective: Not Every Food Is Worth It
Holiday and party tables are full of options, but not all of them are healthy.
Ask yourself:
'Am I really hungry, full or just eating on invitation?'
If the answer is no, skip.
- Start With Water Before You Start with Food
Half of the time you feel hungry, you’re just thirsty. Sip water before and during the meal. Your tummy will thank you.
Tip:
Drink a glass of water 20–30 minutes before you eat. You’ll feel less tempted to rush into large portions.
- Don’t Load Your Plate Just Because It’s Free
Pick what you want, not what you feel obligated to take. Respect your body, stop when you’re 80% Full. Once you start feeling like, “Hmm… I fit stop here,”
Please stop. Listen to your body’s “enough” signal
- Eat Slowly, Pace Yourself. It’s Not a Competition
This is not an eating challenge. Nobody is giving you a medal. Holiday food is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed. Eating quickly makes you overeat before your stomach realises it's full. Overeating will only stress you later.
Tip
Put your spoon or fork down after every few bites. Sip water in between. This gives your body time to signal if you’re still hungry. Eat slowly. Enjoy the vibes.
- Not Every Occasion Calls for Eating and Drinking
When invited to an event this Christmas, free food and drinks do not equal to commitment to finish all or eat everything. You must not eat everything because is plenty.
6. Regulate How Much You Drink
Your mates can be shouting “Chop na or Drink na!”
Ignore them. Too much is the problem; don’t overdrink out of cheer or peer pressure, celebrate in moderation.
- Move Your Body Even Lightly
A quick walk after eating helps digestion, reduces bloating, and stabilises your energy.
This season, chop life, but let life not chop you.
Enjoy the food, enjoy the vibes, but don’t eat till you need to lie down and reconsider your choices. The key is balance, not restriction.
What’s your plan this season, mindful eating or full festive chop-life? Drop your comments below.
