How to Enjoy a Low Carb Christmas Without Missing Out
Low-carb diets shouldn't mean missing out. The reality is that there’s nothing unhealthy about eating a variety of fresh foods rich in protein and nutrients, a diversity of brightly coloured vegetables, natural fats from nuts, seeds and olive oil, and some fruit.
With the festive season approaching, nutrition practitioner Miguel Toribio-Mateas shares his top 5 tips on how to stay on a low carb diet when you’re surrounded by mince pies, chocolates and roast potatoes!
Miguel’s tips for a successful low carb Christmas
Here are my top 5 tips to keep to your low carb lifestyle whilst surrounded by high carb foods and those who thoroughly enjoy them! But firstly, the absolute basics for succeeding at low carb eating are:
- Make sure you have a variety of fish, meat, dairy, eggs, and as many colours of vegetables growing above ground (i.e. not root veg) and natural fats, like extra virgin olive oil and some butter.
- Minimise or ideally avoid all ultra-processed foods. This includes any food with added sugar or foods that are really starchy, like rice, bread, pasta and potatoes.
1) Avoid boredom, keep it varied
People often fail on diets because they get bored. To avoid finding things dull, make sure to add a variety of the super low carb vegetables to your shopping basket. These include:
- Cabbage, Cauliflower, Broccoli
- Courgettes, Spinach, Kale
- Avocado, Asparagus
- Green beans, Brussels sprouts
These vegetables generally contain below 5% net carbs.
2) Keep on moving
Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity. When cells respond better to insulin, glucose is used more efficiently. This typically results in more balanced blood glucose levels throughout the day.
A brisk stroll after lunch or a winter walk can help your gut bugs and improve your energy levels.
3) Be flexible, but stay determined
It’s about finding that point where you feel comfortable that you’re still doing what you wanted to do, i.e. staying low carb, whilst enjoying the festivities. If you are tempted by dessert, have a small taste rather than sabotaging your entire progress.
4) Find alternatives
Dip bits of cucumber, celery, or mixed colour pepper slices instead of crackers. Use roasted carrots or celeriac as alternatives to potatoes. Replace ultra-processed snacks with vibrantly colourful fresh vegetables and fruit.
5) Don’t shy away from protein and healthy fat
Christmas is the perfect season for great quality protein. Turkey, lamb, pork, or beef all contain good amino acids.
Use butter for roasting or plenty of olive oil in dressings. If you’re hungry, have some cheese and berries. Some nice Manchego with fresh raspberries is divine.
And what about the drink?
Champagne and Prosecco are surprisingly low carb. Red and white wine are also relatively low. Beer is higher in carbs, so you may wish to switch to wine or spirits like vodka and soda for the festivities.
Wrapping up
It is perfectly feasible to have a thoroughly enjoyable Christmas whilst sticking to your preferred way of eating.
Miguel Toribio-Mateas
Miguel is a nutrition specialist with a background in clinical neuroscience and microbiome research, helping individuals translate complex science into meaningful health improvements.
The Better Health Beat Team