Weight Articles

The truth about Turkey 

The 25th wouldn’t be the same without a toiled-over turkey. The good news is, the meat is lower in fat and richer in protein compared to both chicken and beef - a one up on the weekly Sunday roast! By taking a serving of white and dark meat you are boosting your intake of healthy fats and iron too. 

Sure, basting or frying your bird is not as good for you as if you roast it, but either way, turkey is a brilliant source of vitamin B3 which aids a better metabolism. It helps your body to process sugars and fatty acids into energy, helping you to keep your energy levels up on the post-pudding dance floor.

What about roast potatoes?

58% of people say that roasties are their favourite part of the Christmas plate, and you shouldn’t feel bad about a double serving. As well as being a high source of fibre, which keep cholesterol and blood sugars down, starch is great for good gut health. 

Although peeling and cutting potatoes can reduce the number of nutrients like potassium and magnesium, parboiling them increases the resistance of starch. This means, not only will your potatoes be fluffy in the centre and golden on the outside, your gut bacteria will have to work to break them down - something it loves to do! 

Don’t feel guilty about pigs in blankets 

Providing a double serving of protein in just one bite, eating pigs in blankets in moderation will help boost your protein levels. Yes, a bacon-wrapped sausage isn’t going to be the best for your body but by opting for high-quality ingredients, you can spoil yourself without making excuses. 

If you do want to switch these trimmings out for something else, or your vegetarian, why not try switching your sausage for halloumi and bacon for aubergine?

Rave about red cabbage 

It might be the one time of the year that you go to town on red cabbage, but there is absolutely no reason to feel bad about it. Red cabbage, like brussels sprouts, comes from the brassica family which is why it has a slight peppery flavour. 

Red cabbage gets its vivid colour from antioxidants. These molecules fight off free radicals which damage our healthy cells. Although our bodies create free radicals naturally, if we have too many of them in our system at once it can cause inflammation. 

Pile your plate with vegetables 

The best thing to do to boost your Christmas plate this year is to make sure you have a wide range of vegetables alongside your proteins. Whether you choose carrots, broccoli or even brussels, don’t shy away from the foods that you know will make you feel good. 

If you want to learn more about healthy food choices, head over to our talkweight hub where you’ll find loads of great resources and advice.