The silly season is almost upon us, which for most of us translates to Christmas parties, celebrations and a few more late nights. So, we thought we would share our top 5 health hacks that will help you get through the Christmas period to greet the New Year with your health intact.

Stay hydrated

We are in for a warm and dry summer, so it is essential to keep up your water intake to prevent dehydration. Alcohol and coffee can further increase water loss from the body, so if you indulge in either (or both), make sure that you top up hydration levels with plenty of fresh water. Aim for 2 litres of water per day.

Start your day right

A nourishing breakfast is a great way to start the day and is especially important during the madness of the holiday period. Bump up the nutrition factor with healthy smoothies and plant-based breakfasts, which will prepare your body to wine and dine later in the day. See our smoothie recipes for inspiration.

Opt for organic

Speaking of wine, if you are having a celebratory glass or two why not opt for an organic drop? Organic wines are produced without the use of pesticides and often contain lower amounts of preservatives (sulphites). This means you will be getting far less chemicals in your glass, which is a great thing – both for your liver and the environment. Always remember to drink responsibly.

Plant-based platters

The good old cheese platter is a staple during the Christmas break, and can often be a source of overindulgence. Rather than trying to forgo the cheese and charcuterie altogether, bulk out the platter with some vegetable crudités and fresh seasonal fruits.

Daily downtime

Take a break from the hectic pace of Christmas preparations and just breathe. It can be such a busy and overwhelming time of year, so incorporate some downtime into your day to help your mind and body cope with stress. Here are some ideas for self-care you might like to try.