It is that time of year where the shelves are filled to the brim with all sorts of delicious chocolate eggs, bunnies and bilbies.
For most this produces a sense of joy knowing that Easter is just around the corner (and an extra-long weekend), but for others the feelings of anxiety around over indulging in the sweet, smooth magic that is chocolate can become overwhelming.
The team from NT Health has six tips to help manage the lure of chocolate over the Easter holidays, so when you are thinking about eating that whole bag of eggs, you can consider a healthy option.
Below are some tips from our local Accredited Practising Dietitians to help enjoy this holiday.
Moderation is the key
A little chocolate every now and then is ok. Set yourself a limit. Purchase smaller, individually-wrapped treats rather than a huge egg, so you will not be tempted to eat the whole thing. Although indulging in too much chocolate can be detrimental to our health as it is high in saturated fats and sugar, it doesn’t mean you have to cut it out altogether. Congratulate yourself for sticking to your set limit e.g. four small chocolate eggs on Easter Sunday, or one dark chocolate bunny over the four-day weekend.
Give non-chocolate gifts
Agree with your family/friends to give non-chocolate gifts. Instead, you could hand-paint eggs, make Easter parade hats together, or choose to give candles, plants or a lovely bunch of flowers. Easter is not just about chocolate eggs.
Choose quality over quantity
Remember that less is more. Pick out a few of your favourite, good quality chocolates this Easter and remember to eat slowly and mindfully. The better quality the chocolate, the more likely you will savour it and appreciate each mouthful.
Sharing is caring
If you keep your Easter treats stored in the house, you are likely to eat them. Minimise how much you have at your house by giving your chocolate as a gift, bringing it to work to share with colleagues or freezing leftovers. Be careful to avoid stocking up at the pre and post Easter chocolate sales.
Avoid skipping meals
To avoid the chocolate binge, it is important to continue to eat regular meals and snacks with plenty of wholegrains, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats. Keep your chocolate or hot cross bun as a dessert rather than a regular snack.
Keep active
Continue to remain as active as possible over the Easter holiday, and take the time to enjoy this with friends and family. Australia’s physical activity guidelines recommend engaging in 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each day to help improve blood pressure, cholesterol, heart health and bone and muscle strength.
Consider these tips over Easter and you might not have to put so many hours in the gym come Tuesday.
From everyone at NT Health, we wish you a safe and happy Easter.
Media Contact: Gail Turner 0476 839 383