Looking for practical holiday alcohol tips to enjoy the festive season without compromising your health? We’ve got you covered! The Christmas season brings joy, connection, and celebration. It is often also accompanied by an increase in alcohol consumption. From work parties to family dinners, it’s easy for those extra drinks to creep in. This can leave you feeling fatigued, dehydrated or regretting your choices the next day.
But enjoying a festive party doesn’t have to mean overdoing it (at least every time). With some mindful planning, you can engage in the seasonal cheer while protecting your health and energy levels. Here’s a deeper dive into managing alcohol during the holidays.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
As I said before, drinking more water is arguably the best thing you can do for your health. It becomes even more of a priority as we enter the hotter months and silly season all at once. As the weather gets hotter, naturally we become more dehydrated. As we enter the festive season, and more alcohol is put in front of us, this will also contribute to dehydrating us. Consuming much more water than usual is then needed.
I recommended at least 2-3L every day, and increasing this on the days where you are outside for longer, partaking in a heavy physical activity session or know there is a big drinking night coming up that we hit 4L per day. Adding some electrolytes are also beneficial on these days, and add a satisfying taste to quench the thirst. When out, consider having a glass of water or a non-alcoholic beverage between alcoholic drinks to pace yourself and stay hydrated – your head will be grateful for it the next day!
Eat before you get to the party
Having a balanced meal full of protein, carbs and healthy fats can positively affect your Christmas party experience. Food, especially meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs, slows the rate at which alcohol enters your bloodstream. This could be as simple as rice, chicken and vegetables, or more filling like spaghetti bolognaise.
If you are really stuck for time something as simple as tuna on crackers will stand to you. Eating beforehand helps you avoid getting tipsy too quickly and may reduce the risk of a hangover the next day. Eating a healthy meal before hand will also help you to limit overindulging at the party on foods that are high in sugar and saturated fats. So, you can enjoy your cocktail without overdoing the calories with high calorie food as well.
Move the following day
It’s easy to feel sorry for yourself after a big party and drinking especially if you’re not used to it, however taking a light walk after a big night out offers several benefits. This is especially true if you’re feeling a bit sluggish or dehydrated. A walk helps get your blood flowing, which can reduce the feeling of heaviness or fatigue after a night of sitting or standing for extended periods.
It also promotes oxygen and nutrient delivery to your muscles, aiding recovery. Even if you could think of nothing worse at the time, I can be certain that once you get up and start moving you will feel much better!
In summary
By following these holiday alcohol tips, you can celebrate the season with balance, keeping your health and energy intact. The holiday season is about celebrating, creating memories, and enjoying the company of friends and family. That doesn’t mean you have to overdo it. By making mindful choices, balancing indulgence with moderation, and staying active, you can enjoy all the festive fun without compromising your health or energy. This Christmas, savour the moments, nourish your body, and feel your best as you celebrate the season. After all, the most memorable moments come from being present, not overindulging.
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