Seasons eatings!

The average Irish person will gain up to half a stone over the festive period as the temptation of never-ending chocolates, mince pies and savoury snacks get the better of them!

The season of goodwill brings good cheer, eating and drinking and many of us indulge in all sorts of fattening fare which invariably leads to those unwanted Christmas pounds.

During Christmas revelry, food often becomes the centre piece.

According to the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute, on Christmas day people can eat and drink their way through up to 6000 calories!

Joyous overeating is followed by strict resolutions to lose weight come New Year’s Day but many people struggle to undo the damage caused by all those fatty foods.

According to Motivation Weight Management, the season of good will does not have to be laden down with calories and for those who want to plan a little ‘damage limitation’ they have a great light and tasty menu to help get through the season’s eatings!

They also draw attention to the staggering comparison in Christmas day calories.

The light and tasty Christmas day comes in at just 1165 calories which leaves some room for manoeuvre and ever a festive spirit or two. But the traditional Christmas day calorie count is a shocking 4025.

Healthy Christmas Day Alternative

Light & Tasty Christmas Day

Breakfast : 2 grilled rashers and mushroom: 120Cal

Lunch

Starter: Quater melon: 60Cal

Main:Turkey and ham, stuffing made from wholemeal bread, bread sauce made with water, broccoli made with cabbage, sugar free cranberry sauce, half cup mashed potatoes: 530Cal

Dessert: Trifle made from sugar free jelly and fruit: 35Cal

Supper:

Salad with cold meats: 210Cal

Half cup of fruit cocktail: 120Cal

Total Calories: 1075Cal

Traditional

Breakfast

Full Irish: 1065Cal

Lunch

Starter: Smoked Salmon & Bread: 292Cal

Main: Turkeyand ham, roast potatoes, stuffing, bread sauce, carrots, parsnips, brussel sprouts, gravy, cranberry sauce, cheese, crackers: 1500Cal

Dessert: Christmas Pudding, custard and brandy butter: 687Cal

Supper:

Turkey and Ham Sandwich: 450Cal

Mince pie and cream: 368Cal

Christmas Cake: 350Cal

Total Calories* 4,025Cal

*Calories are estimates as they depend on portion sizes