As the Easter weekend approaches, many of us look forward to indulging in festive treats, family gatherings, and special meals. However, the abundance of delicious but often calorie-rich foods during this time can make it challenging to stick to our healthy eating goals.

Not only can overindulging in Easter chocolates spike our blood sugar and leave us feeling sluggish, but a long weekend of rich foods can put our body under stress, easily leading to an upset gut microbiome, increased inflammation and weight gain.

However, with some mindful planning and smart choices, it's possible to enjoy the holiday while still eating healthily. Here are some tips to help you navigate the Easter weekend and stay on track with your nutrition goals.

Tips:

1. Start with a Balanced Breakfast: It's essential to kickstart your day with a balanced breakfast on Easter weekend. A nourishing breakfast will help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the temptation to snack on unhealthy treats later in the day. Opt for high-fibre foods such as whole grains and fruits, along with a good source of protein like eggs or Greek yoghurt. This will help stabilise your blood sugar levels and keep you energised throughout the day.

2. Make Smart Chocolate Choices: There’s no need to miss out on Easter chocolate! You can still satisfy your sweet tooth by sprinkling chocolate drops or buttons into Greek yoghurt or opting for dark chocolate. Since dark chocolate has a higher cocoa content, it generally contains less sugar and more antioxidants. Consider making your own healthier, nutritious chocolate treats with family and friends like rice crispy cakes, chocolate bark or rocky road, using dark chocolate, nuts and dried fruits.

3. Practice Portion Control: With an array of tempting treats and rich foods on offer over the weekend, being mindful of your portions can allow you to feel in control of your eating without missing out. Start with a smaller portion than what you’d usually go for, and assess how full you are before reaching for more. You can still enjoy your favourite foods in moderation by loading up on veggies to add volume to your meals without excessive calories. A colourful variety will be packed with fibre, vitamins and minerals, helping you to feel full and satisfied.

4. Plan Ahead for Meals: One of the keys to eating healthily during the Easter weekend is to plan your meals in advance. If you know you'll be attending a family gathering or a special meal, try to find out what will be served and plan your portions accordingly. If you're hosting a meal, consider incorporating lighter dishes into the menu, such as roasted vegetables, a colourful salad and lean protein sources such as grilled chicken, turkey and fish. These are lower in fat and calories than bacon or steak, and they can help you maintain muscle mass and support your overall health.

5. Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated is always important, but it's especially crucial during the Easter weekend. Drinking enough water can help you stay full and prevent overeating. It can also help regulate your digestion, support your metabolism, and keep your energy levels up. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and consider swapping sugary beverages for water, herbal tea or sparkling water to cut down on unnecessary calories.

6. Have Fun! Easter weekend doesn't have to be all about food. Stay active and incorporate physical activity into your holiday celebrations. Go for a walk, play outdoor games, get involved in an Easter Egg hunt or plan a family bike ride. Physical activity can help burn off excess calories, boost your mood and improve your overall health. It's also a great way to create lasting memories and bond with loved ones.

7. Consider a Post-Easter Fast: If you do end up overindulging and are left feeling sluggish, ProLon can help you get back on track with our ReSet 1-Day Fasting Kit. The box contains everything you need for the day including soups, snacks, supplements and drinks to relieve you from Bank Holiday meal planning. Alternatively, make a commitment to healthy habits with our Spring Bundle or 3 Box Bundle to keep you feeling energised all the way to summer.