Christmas is a time when families come together and feast on all kinds of tasty tipples, snacks and platters.
But while it is a time for indulgence, there are a number of decisions you can make early on to prevent that dreaded festive season bloat.
So to help you make some healthier choices and avoid high calorie foods this holiday season, Australian dietitian, Susie Burrell has shared her top picks for snacking.
‘A few crackers and dip can quickly equate to more calories than an entire meal,’ she wrote on her website.
‘So, if you do enjoy a few nibbles when celebrating, here are the best choices for the perfect snack plate so you can enjoy some tasty snacks minus the calories.’
People love to nibble and graze on platters at gatherings, accompanied by a drink or two
To help you make some healthier choices this holiday season, Australian dietitian, Susie Burrell (pictured) has shared her top picks for snacking
CRACKERS
Susie’s number one recommendation for cutting the calories when it comes to your platter is using Wafer thins.
‘Forget heavy crackers and biscuit which can contain as much fat as potato chips, with six to eight of these fine wafers containing just 10g of carbs it is a great way to enjoy your favourite cheese or dip minus some extra calories,’ Susie explained.
Another recommendation of hers is Grissini’s, which are popular in Europe. It is a ‘crunchy alternative’ to potato chips and works well with dips and lean meats.
Susie’s number one recommendation for cutting uneccesary calories is by using Wafer thins
CHEESE
When choosing a cheese you need to consider both saturated fat and sodium content, which aren’t good for your heart’s health.
Creamy cheeses such as Camembert and brie tend to be higher than most in that department so instead you can opt for lower fat cheeses such as ricotta or goats cheese.
‘Who doesn’t love cheese? And did you know that goat’s cheese is just 18% fat compared to cheddar or creamy cheese,’ Susie shared.
‘Enjoy it topped with cucumber or with tomato on crackers.’
‘Who doesn’t love cheese? And did you know that goat’s cheese is just 18% fat compared to cheddar or creamy cheese,’ said
POPCORN
Although not a typical part of grazing platters, Susie suggests that popcorn is a great addition.
‘When we are munching mindlessly you cannot go past popcorn which contains just eight grams of carbs per two cups, making it a much better choice than corn and potato chips,’ she said.
When purchasing a bag make sure you are choosing air popped, instead of the kind coated in butter.
Although not a typical part of grazing platters, Susie suggests that popcorn is a great addition
DIPS
Everyone loves a good dip but sadly not all of them have our waistline in mind.
Instead of missing out on dips all together understand which ones are a healthier option. If trying to be healthy avoid those that are cream based.
‘There are many many dips available and many are high in fat. Dips are also extremely easy to overeat so always serve out small amounts rather than the entire tub,’ Susie said.
‘Beetroot, hummus and avocado dips tend to be better options nutritionally and calorie wise.’
If you are trying to be healthy this Christmas season avoid dips that are cream based
SEAFOOD
When creating your platter try and avoid using processed meats like ham and salami as their is evidence that suggests they may increase your chance of cancer.
For a healthier festive platter choose a protein like smoked salmon, which will provide a boost of healthy omega-3 fats.
‘Prawns, oysters and even smoked oysters are relatively low in calories, high in protein and rich sources of iodine and zinc,’ Susie said.
For a healthier festive platter choose a protein like smoked salmon, which will provide a boost of healthy omega-3 fats
FRESH VEGGIES
‘One of the easiest ways to lighten the load of your snack plate is to serve it with heaps of vegetables,’ Susie said.
‘Not only will they get eaten as they are crunchy and work well with dips and cheese but you will get a good serve of fibre and nutrients which will help control your calorie intake later.’
Feel free to chop up carrots, capsicum or celery and include a few cherry tomatoes for their delicious flavour as well as a pop of colour.
For some healthy fats add some olives to the plate.