Holiday season is fast approaching and most of us look forward to relaxing and spending time with family. With holidays, unfortunately, comes food-fueled indulgence, that oh-so-full feeling and guilt. While there’s nothing to feel guilty about when it comes to celebrating this time with our friends and family, we’re here to provide a few tips to help you stay on track.

In this article our nutrition expert Julia shares 3 hacks to enjoy holiday meals while sparing you from blood glucose rollercoaster (which, as we know, encourages weight gain):

#1 Vinegar

Say what? Yes, consider diluted Apple Cider Vinegar 10 mins before your meal. (1 tbsp per 0.5 glass of water or to taste. Drink through a straw). Offer Apple Cider Vinegar drink to your guests, start a new family tradition.  You can add a mini cocktail umbrella, to make it more fun.

Studies show that vinegar has blood glucose lowering effect. Vinegar slows down how quickly starches break down into glucose during digestion. And it tells our cells to burn more fat.

Bonus: Apple Cider Vinegar is good for digestion and stimulates secretion of digestive juices, getting your body ready for food.

#2 Chose your alcohol wisely

Most of us are aware that alcohol is not great for our liver, brain or body, but it doesn’t have to be bad for our blood glucose too, when enjoyed on special occasions and wisely.

Choosing more blood glucose friendly beverages in moderation, such as wine, Champagne, spirits on the rocks, with a twist, spirits mixed with sparkling water and low carb beer like Lager.

And staying away from regular beer, cocktails with sugar syrup like Margarita, spirits mixed with fruit juices.

Bonus: Drink plenty of water when consuming alcoholic beverages, to prevent dehydration and not-so-fun feeling the next day.

#3 Move your body within 45-60 minutes after a meal

While lacing up your sneakers might be the last thing you want to do after a big meal, exercise will help lower that post meal blood glucose spike by encouraging muscles to use up the glucose for energy, in turn reducing insulin response.   

Bonus: It also helps you get some fresh crispy winter air, burn off some of those calories, stimulate digestive system and reconnect with your family members without distractions.

Walking is not your thing? No problem! Turn the music up loud and have a dance party with your guests. Make it a fun family activity!