This season is full of festive treats, end of year celebrations, on-the-go mealtimes and a few too many beverages! It’s a time of merriment, to wrap up the year that was and spend time with family and friends.

This time brings many opportunities to not eat healthy. It can be a tricky time to find a balance between enjoying the festivities and keeping up with healthy eating habits to keep you feeling good. Here are our five tips to survive the silly season snacking so your diet doesn’t totally turn to custard!

1. Start the day with a healthy breakfast

Setting up a good routine each morning can kick-start healthy habits for the rest of the day. Opt for a high-protein breakfast option like eggs, overnight oats or porridge, or a quick protein smoothie - throw frozen berries, banana, oats and your choice of milk in a blender, and voila!

2. Don’t skip meals

While skipping lunch might seem like it will make up for a larger-than-normal dinner and drinks later, it may have the opposing effect. Arriving hungry at a dinner function means you’ll be more likely to fill up on pre-dinner snacks, plus drinking on an empty stomach can lead to more mindless munching.

3. Prepare healthy snacks in advance

Aim for foods that you can eat while on the go. These will fill you up so you’re less inclined to feast on leftover Christmas morning tea in the office or last night’s dessert! Snacks like protein balls, nuts, greek yoghurt and fresh fruit can keep you fueled until the next meal.

4. Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water is crucial because thirst can often be confused for hunger. Drink a full glass of water with every meal and one in between, carry a reusable drink bottle with you, or even set a reminder on your phone to keep you on track!

5. Include protein with every meal 

Protein plays a crucial role in providing energy and supporting muscle growth and repair. It has a satiating effect which keeps you fuller for longer, and therefore less likely to snack. Good sources of protein include meat, dairy products, eggs, nuts, seeds, and Lighthouse Whey Protein Powder.

Lighthouse Whey Protein Powder is sourced from New Zealand dairy, made with a low-temperature, ultra-filtered process to ensure the protein is of the highest quality. It contains no artificial flavours or sweeteners, and is available in unflavoured, vanilla and chocolate options. It’s perfect to add to smoothies, baking, or in a glass of water or milk.

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On-the-go protein balls recipe

Ingredients:
3 cups wholegrain oats
3 tbsp cacao powder
1½ cups nut butter
½ cup Lighthouse Whey Protein Powder - vanilla or chocolate
½ cup shredded coconut
3 tbsp sunflower seeds
2 tsp stevia or other sweetener
5-6 tbsp water

Method:
Blend all ingredients in a food processor or high-speed blender
Roll mixture into balls and roll in shredded coconut
Chill in the fridge until firm.