Make it a waistwise Christmas

With so much festive food around, it can be easy to ignore your body’s normal fullness signals and overeat at Christmas. And when the family get-together becomes a sit-down feast from dawn to dusk and beyond, the kilojoules can really stack up. Here are some tips to manage your weight over the festive season.

Eat slowly and pay attention to your stomach’s fullness signals so you know when it’s time to stop eating.

You don’t have to finish your plate. It’s far better to put the kilojoules in the waste than around your waist.

If you're going somewhere else to eat - don't arrive hungry. Have a small healthy snack before the function to take the edge of your hunger - try eating a boiled egg, a glass of water and an apple! Protein-rich foods like egg help keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Schedule something active to do BEFORE you go on to a Christmas lunch or dinner. Kick a ball around the park with the kids, go for a walk and add some walking lunges or squats. Then at the end of the day, go for another walk!
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Top 5 tips to keep kids active this Summer

The weather may be up and down lately but there's no denying that summer and school holidays are just around the corner! Try these sanity savers that will not only keep your family active over the festive season, but boost your energy levels as well.

Be active together. If you can't afford the time or money for a summer holiday plan 'mini' trips, such as day's bush or nature walk at Tidbinbilla. Picnics are great outdoor fun anytime - just remember to pack the insect repellent!

Try a range of different games and activities. Not only will this help with short attention spans, it will also help your kids develop healthy bones, muscles and joints. Do moderate exercise like brisk walking or vigorous activities that make everyone 'huff and puff - game of footy or cricket in the backyard will get the blood flowing.

Be a child yourself and join in. Kids love it when Mum and Dad join in their games. Throw a frisbee or ball together, fly a kite or play hopscotch. Go for a walk together around the block before dinner, climb equipment at the local park with them, try a swim at the local pool, or ride bikes.

Reduce inactive leisure time. Limit TV viewing to an hour or two, cut down on video games and reduce time surfing the net. Swap these for more active choices and your kids will feel better for it. They will probably sleep better as well!

Be a good role model for your kids. If an active lifestyle is part of your life, you're much more likely to pass similar good habits to your kids.