If you need to watch your weight, then watch out when it comes to Christmas dinner. It is estimated that the annual festive lunch can contain upwards of 3500 kacls and 150g fat! Here are a few foods to watch for at Christmas. Look who wants to be a party pooper… not me, so perhaps I’ll just watch my portion control and use minimal added fat when cooking!
STUFFING – Turkey on Christmas Day isn’t the same without a portion of stuffing. But sausage stuffing is one of the most fat-laden parts of the meal. One portion contains 231 calories and 15g of fat.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS Phew at least these are no problem to eat, apart from the after effects. One portion contains 32 calories and 1g of fat.
CHIPOLATAS IN BACON These little pigs in blankets are the highlight of the Christmas feast, but when it comes to healthy eating, they are so indulgent one portion contains 197 calories and 16g of fat.
BREAD SAUCE This traditional accompaniment is a rare sight apart from the annual 25th December. One portion contains 42 calories and 1g of fat.
DRINK Most of us have more than one on Christmas Day and each one is laden with calories. Most people will consume around five drinks on Christmas Day which totals around 850 calories.
TURKEY Even although it is a fairly healthy meat, a good sized portion still adds considerably to your tally of calories. One portion contains 149 calories and 4g of fat.
ROAST POTATOES Everyone loves a few roast potatoes – especially ones cooked in goose fat, but they are undoubtedly one of the most unhealthy aspects of any festive feast. One portion contains 127 calories and 4g of fat.
MINCE PIES Once dinner has gone down just a little bit, everyone likes a mince pie and cream with their cup of tea or coffee. But beware – one portion contains 368 calories and 25g of fat.
CHRISTMAS PUDDING It’s a staple at this time of year and tastes even better when smothered in brandy butter or rum sauce wow, one portion contains 330 calories and 11.8g of fat.
Happy Holidays everyone, we would love to hear from you so please leave a message.
Dave – WMC Nutritionist
Adapted from the Daily Record Samantha Booth Dec 16 2009
