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Quick tips for a healthier Easter

Easter is around the corner - there are chocolate eggs and bunnies as far as the eye can see. Since these sweet delicacies have a way of seducing even the most disciplined of dieters, it's best to be prepared with a quick survival guide to a healthier Easter. Here's how you can join in the fun without sacrificing your waistline:

The sad reality of chocolate is that it is very high in fat and sugar - hence the high kilojoule load that can cause weight gain in no time! No-one, however, would be so cruel as to deny you a sweet treat altogether - the answer simply lies in small portions. Instead of having one big chocolate egg, rather have four small mini eggs. One big chocolate egg, or one of those delectable gold chocolate bunnies, can weigh up to 100g containing 2 200kJ and 30g of fat - that's the equivalent of one slab chocolate. However, eating four mini eggs would give you around 600kJ and just 8g of fat. The act of unwrapping small individually wrapped eggs also helps you to eat less in one sitting.

Another option would be to choose good-quality dark chocolate. The darker the chocolate, the better it is for you. Dark chocolate contains far more cocoa butter, making it rich in healthy antioxidants. It also contains less sugar, little or no milk and fewer vegetable fats, making it lower in kilojoules than milk or white chocolate. Another advantage of dark chocolate is that it fills you up faster, so you'll be inclined to eat much less.

Instead of succumbing to the temptation of nibbling on a chocolate egg first thing in the morning, have real eggs for breakfast. Having a good protein-rich breakfast, will stop you from overindulging on chocolate eggs later in the day. You could also boil eggs and paint them in bright colours, to enjoy at as a healthy snack later in the day. Decorating the eggs could make for a fun holiday activity with the kids.

Balance out your chocolate treats by eating healthily at meal times. You could still enjoy a lovely celebratory meal on Easter Sunday by opting for lean meats and fish (that you grill or bake, rather than fry) such as roast chicken, lamb, beef or salmon. Serve with brown rice and a fresh crunchy salad. Beware of the gravy, which can be high in fat, and limit your alcohol intake, another kilojoule bomb. Enjoy berries and yoghurt for dessert or snack on some summer fruit.

Finally, get your exercise by planning a fun activity for each day. Enjoy the last of the summer days by going on a bike ride with your family, organising an Easter egg hunt or going for a hike in the great outdoors.
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