Have a Healthier Easter

Traditionally a time of over-indulgence, you can have a healthier Easter by following these easy ideas . . .

Image istock / Words Heart UK (www.heartuk.org.uk)

One of the most common things associated with Easter is chocolate. So instead of overindulging in sweets and chocolate this year, why not treat yourself and your family to some heart-healthy treats instead?

• Avoid buying lots of chocolate for your children – instead of one large chocolate egg, choose mini chocolate eggs and hide them around the house or garden. Children will get exercise while searching for the eggs without realising it and they will end up with less chocolate then they would have with one large egg.
• Create an Easter basket for the children and include active treats like skipping ropes, hula hoops, football and /or creative treats like modelling clay or gel pens. You can include small boxes of chocolate covered raisins or dried or fresh fruit.
• Why not get one good quality dark chocolate egg for adults? There has been much recent research which reveals that dark chocolate may be beneficial for heart health. However do check the cocoa solid content of the Easter eggs because the higher the percentage of cocoa solids the better.
• Start the day off with a healthy breakfast – try breakfast cereals, porridge, bread, bagels or fruit loaf, which are all good sources of energy. Choose wholegrain varieties to ensure a good fibre intake to keep you feeling full, so you are less likely to overindulge on the chocolate.
• Limit the amount of chocolate you eat by filling up with a healthy lunch of fish or lean meat and plenty of vegetables before the chocolate comes out.
• Lamb seems to be associated with traditional Easter Sunday Lunch so make sure you choose a leaner cut. If roasting lightly drizzle the joint with olive or vegetable oil instead of lard or butter and serve with plenty of steamed vegetables. If it’s going to be a sunny Easter Sunday, ask the butcher to butterfly a leg joint so it cooks quicker and then fire up the BBQ and serve with a variety of salads.
• If you are entertaining and drinking alcohol over the Easter period, why not alternate your alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic ones (remember if you are having fizzy drinks choose sugar free or diet varieties).
• Take advantage of the spring weather and organise an Easter egg hunt or see if there is one happening locally. It s a great way to get the children and adults out in the fresh air.

So don’t miss out on the Easter fun with the family and friends.

For more information and advice about Cholesterol and Heart Health visit www.heartuk.org.uk or email ask@heartuk.org.uk or call the helpline on 0845 450 5988 Mon-Fri 10 to 3 pm