Chinese New Year is one of the most important celebrations in Chinese culture as it celebrates the start of a new way of life. And as with most celebrations, the delicious food offerings has to be one of the finest highlights of a festive celebration. As we know, Chinese New Year dinners sometimes come in various courses, so here’s a few special tricks to help you stay healthy and ‘prosperous’, as the Chinese do believe that the key to prosperity is in healthy eating.
1. If you’re preparing dinner for the family, balance the hearty meals by serving a variety of vegetables, and encourage your guests to try them.
2. Simply cut down your food portions when dining. Chinese family feasts is not really about eating till you’re full, but to savor in the food and the company of your family members.
3. Opt for fresh fruits as snack and desserts.
4. Avoid sugar as often as possible. Stay away from sugary drinks for your beverage, and stick to sugar-less tea if possible. If you do want something sweet, have a mandarin orange instead.
5. Do put a limit on your intake of snacks like chips, crackers, and egg rolls. Although these delights may be a festive treat you only indulge in once a year, you don’t have to make a meal out of it. A few bites should suffice.
6. When dining with the family, opt for fish and chicken breast instead of high-cholesterol meats like lamb and pork.
7. When selecting dishes onto your plate, choose dishes that are cooked in healthier methods such as boiled, grilled, steamed or stir-fried.
8. Stay away from high-calorie dishes that are cooked in a lot of oil and fat.
9. Have plenty of foods that are high in fibre and protein like tofu, vegetables and fruits so you can have a filling effect without overeating.
10. Stop eating before you feel too stuffed, and remember to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
