How to enjoy the Lunar New Year feasts without putting on weight
It’s a question of making wise choices and not overindulging when confronted by the sheer volume of foods, says registered dietitian
During Year of the Pig celebrations, you will come across an array of traditional foods, from dried fruits and sweets placed in a bright red lacquered candy box, to mouth-watering glutinous rice cakes and deep-fried peanut dumplings, and to the delectable poon choi.
If you do not want to put on more excess weight during this 15-day celebration, here are some ways to make wise choices:
The Tray of Togetherness
The Tray of Togetherness is a box with six or eight compartments, filled with savouries and sweets for welcoming guests. Each edible item traditionally bears a symbolic meaning based on homonyms and idioms. With a large selection of offerings to buy, the platter can be varied to bear the blessings you wish for your guests.
Assemble a platter that emphasises good health
If wishing others good health is a priority, consider assembling a candy box with healthier options. Like the traditional red melon seeds, roasted and unsalted sunflower seeds are a good source of healthy unsaturated fats. However, the sunflower seeds are free from artificial colouring.
Like melon and sunflower seeds, unsalted pistachios and cashews are a good source of protein and rich in monounsaturated fats, which help to promote satiety and to keep the heart healthy, respectively. Choosing unsalted versions of these nuts helps to reduce the intake of added sodium.
