Want to keep weight gains in check in the Year of the Snake?

Chinese New Year (CNY) is a time for joyous reunions, lively decorations, and auspicious red packets! But the highlight for many is feasting in traditional CNY food like celebratory yu sheng, soft, chewy nian gao, sweet pineapple tarts, and other goodies. These festive treats certainly hold a special place in our hearts.

The abundance of food during the 15-day celebration makes it all too easy to succumb to overeating, especially when hopping from house to house during visits.

Without exercising control and moderation during this festive period, you may unknowingly put on some weight¹. Here are some simple tips to enjoy CNY in the Year of the Snake and be healthy while keeping weight gains in check.

Portion control

While you may not always have a say in what your family and relatives cook, you can still control the amount of food that you serve onto your plate.

Start by visualing your plate divided into quarters²: half the plate for vegetables and fruits, one quarter for meat and other proteins, and one quarter for whole grains (or maybe some rice as an exception for the festive season). Following this simple mental guide encourages you to have a balanced, satiating meal without overloading your body.

Plus, when your plate appears full, relatives are less likely to give you extra servings. You can also politely decline more food offered to you if you are too full; it is perfectly okay to do so.

Moderate your alcohol intake

CNY often means plenty of toasts and cheers of “Huat ah!” with family and friends. While consuming alcoholic beverages, be mindful of your alcohol intake. Sugary cocktails and beer³ are high-calorie booze that you may be overdrinking during CNY. Opt for spirits that are lower in calories⁴ and can be slowly enjoyed, such as whisky or wine. Limit your rounds and alternate with water to hydrate your body to keep the scales from tipping.

Mindful eating

Those irresistible trays of pineapple tarts, almond cookies, and crunchy prawn crackers may taste amazing, but they can become  silent saboteurs⁵ as these CNY goodies may be packed with calories. For example, nian gao can pack quite a bit of calories. While watching TV or chatting with relatives, it’s easy to mindlessly consume an entire jar of cookies without realising it.

To combat unconscious snacking, you can try to keep your portion out your snacks⁶ by putting a reasonable amount on your plate and store the rest away. Avoid eating directly from the package if possible.

Keep moving

House visits often involve long conversations and enjoying delicious food, especially while seated at the dining table. However, don’t let this sedentary routine take over. Sitting uses less energy as compared to standing or moving, so you burn less calories.

Take a quick walk around the house, stand up after a big meal, or challenge your younger relatives to a round of Twister. These small bursts of activity add up, keeping your metabolism humming and preventing that “stuffed turkey” feeling.

Healthy gifting

This year, consider gifting beyond the usual bak kwa and love letter, which are  high in calories⁵. Whip up batches of homemade cookies made with healthier ingredients and reduced sugar or share baskets of organic snacks.

Not only will you contribute to their well-being, but you’ll also spark conversations about healthy living and inspire new culinary adventures.

By applying these simple tips, you can indulge in delicious food this season without guilt or unwelcomed pounds. So, savour the traditional CNY foods while being mindful of the things you consume and step into the new year with health and happiness on your plate.

Now, you are ready to enjoy the festivities and welcome the Year of the Dragon!