The weekend is your time for rest and relaxation – and rightly so – but changing gears into your down time can wreak havoc on your diet and wellness plans. You find yourself eating greasy takeaways or just settling in front of the telly to watch Saturday night talent shows, instead of eating well or getting active. So how can you still enjoy your weekend, but still take care of your wellbeing?
Firstly, plan mealtimes that put the “active” in “activities”. Go to restaurants with a dance floor or have a family picnic where you can play different games like badminton, cricket, basketball. When you’re packing your picnic, or ordering your meals, choose wisely; start meals with a full plate of salad and use low-calorie dressings such as lemon juice, orange juice and vinegar. Dishes that are grilled, baked and steamed are the healthiest choices, as well as lean meats and fish, including chicken, salmon and trout. Remember to include plenty of vegetables!
If you use the weekend to indulge your sweet tooth, try a plate of fruit before you turn to the ice-cream tub. If you want something a little more substantial, sponge cake or fruit pie contain fewer calories than cheesecake or cakes filled with cream. When going out for a meal, why not split a dessert between you? You’d never eat the whole thing anyway, and it will save on unnecessary calories and sugar. In fact, small portion sizes are the way to go on your weekend diet, as moderation is the key to keep those extra calories off.
For your weekend tipple, drink smartly. Instead of beer, choose wine or clear spirits like vodka and rum – although avoiding alcohol altogether is the healthiest option. Try to steer clear of cocktails/mocktails, and instead drink lots of water or fresh fruit juice. However, if you are a little bit naughty during the weekend, and are worried about how your diet will fare come Monday, it’s not the end of the world. Simply make up for the extra calories consumed during your weekend with a high protein, low carbohydrate dinner on the first two days of the week.
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