Tip #6- ALCOHOL!

Forget the food; it’s the alcohol that may do you in! Christmas at my house usually looks like this; a couple of pre-lunch Aperitifs- a  Negroni, Martini, Prosecco or  Marsala. Then it’s the wine with lunch…and a lot of it.  Of course you need a “Digestif” to help settle all of the food; why not an Italian bitter or Limoncello? Then with our 1000 sweets and fruit we need something to moisten the usually over-dried Panettone- some sweet wine is usually on tap. To top off our lunch meal, we will have an espresso, with some Grappa, Sambuca or other strong substance to make sure it goes down smoothly.  Did I mention the Asti-Spumanti? This sweet sparkling Italian wine will make an appearance somewhere during out 10 course feast. Phew. I feel drunk just writing this.

Alcohol presents a few problems when trying to reach a fitness goal. It has a lot of carbohydrates per serving, as well as being calorically dense.  It may also for some, make them feel more relaxed, not only physically but mentally, which for many makes the food choices that follow not optimal (as is my case ;). The day after is usually not fun either, with lack of motivation, gym sessions may be affected as well as a desire to “feed” the hangover with greasy food.

Am I saying avoid alcohol at all costs? NO! My plan of action is usually to skip the aperitif and have a sparkling water with lemon. This first drink on an empty stomach will usually set the tone for the rest of the meal- it will only get worse (or better ;). I definitely have a glass of red wine with my meal, but will keep the water goblet close by and sip in between. Another trick is to alternate a glass of water with every glass of wine. It will slow you down and make sure you keep hydrated. As for the after dinner drinks, a drop of white wine with some Perrier; my clients call this a “Rita Cocktail”, will make you feel as if you are joining in the fun but with a quarter of the alcohol. A couple of these will keep me satisfied!

Try and set out a mental plan before your party, Christmas feast or gathering. If you have a plan, you will more likely be able to stick to it!

MERRY CHRISTMAS, BUON NATALE ,FELIZ NAVIDAD