Christmas - the most magical time of the year! What we often forget is the panic that ensues when stockings are missing and one bulb on the tree lights is faulty.. therefore GourmetFuel has prepared 7 steps to help you navigate your way through Christmas 2023 and to make it as stress free as possible.

Preparation is key!

Gather the family and write a list of all the ingredients and food you may need for the lead up and the big day. This avoids last minute late night runs to the shop in your christmas pyjamas! On days while the excitement is building try to opt for leaner meats such as chicken to savour the turkey and ham flavour for your festive dinner.

Think sustainable

Households build up mountains of waste leaving their bins full by the new year. Be wise this year and cut back on unnecessary clutter which in turn will reduce your waste bill. Avoid food waste by sticking to the shopping list, carefully open gifts to reuse wrapping paper, shop sustainable gifts to allow loved ones to keep and treasure items for as long as possible.

Fill up your plate!

Try loading your plate with a variety of veggies with different colours. These vitamins and minerals will boost your immune system for the colder weeks in January. For example, brussel sprouts and broccoli contain antioxidants and are a great source of essential nutrients - delicious & nutritious!

Beware of alcohol intake

The majority of us may indulge in an extra glass or two this merry season yet it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. With a range of diverse spritzers and non-alcoholic beverages on the market. Why not ditch the hangover days and enjoy a refreshing tonic to quench your thirst.

Make your own festive fun!

Children everywhere are getting excited in the build up to the most special day this year, let's not allow them to get bored in the meantime. Prepare fun games such as hide and seek with elf on the shelf or pin the hat on the elf.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day

While the Christmas dinner is the main event - don’t skip out on what can be an amazing stress free Christmas brunch. Plan ahead and design a breakfast menu for the whole family to enjoy an intimate fun morning. Make sure to eat correct portions to balance your hunger at the start of the day. If you aren’t sure how a balanced meal should be, you can also read one of our latest blogs where we talk about it.

Hosting a party or welcoming loved ones home?

It is ever so easy to get wrapped up in the Christmas fun! To make sure you’re on top of things, clean as you go to avoid tripping over toys or decorations. Finding chocolate at every corner? Prepare a variety of healthy snacks to reach for when you need to fuel up mid festivity. Here is an idea to make a quick and healthy gluten free snack with christmas vibes.

Enjoy yourself!

The single most important thing about Christmas is that we enjoy ourselves. Dance until your feet fall off and sing to your favourite festive tunes! Cherish every moment you can and hug your nearest and dearest as you will never get Christmas 2023 back again!

Why not take the stress out this year by purchasing the gift of convenience this year! We have a wide range of new gift certificates for a loved one, colleague or friend. They are linked here and have many different themes for every occasion! It’s a gift anyone can enjoy. ??

• - howtobehealthy