Today marks the day, for me, to start my Christmas shopping in earnest. To date I have browsed the shops and on-line outlets for inspiration and now I have a plan and more importantly a list! I think I more or less know what I need to buy but also know the best made plans can run amok. So I have some back-up strategies should things not quite work out and, based on years gone by, and the advice of the blog below, some tips and tactics to ensure the days doesn’t end in disaster. Check out

some of the ideas below to make it a day to remember for all the right reasons … and remember if you shouldn’t find just the right thing you’re looking for then there might just be something in our on-line shop to appeal. Many are specifically geared to WLS patients but others can be used by everyone aspiring to a healthy lifestyle like our ‘pre-surgery plate’, bento lunch box, portion, cook and serve measuring cups, spray vitamins, Delite protein bars, Head High supplements and weight-loss plaque (all can be seen here).

5 Tips for Healthier Holiday Shopping

With the countdown to the holidays in full swing, chances are you’re logging more time at the shopping mall, in the precinct or on the high street – some things you just can’t buy online. As you brave the crowds — and make a concerted effort to ignore the tempting aromas from the food court and fast food outlets — keep in mind there are many ways you can turn your shopping experience into a healthy outing.

Think of these tips the next time you’re shopping bound:

Plan ahead. Have a WLS meal before you hit anywhere so you’re not tempted to indulge in the unhealthy choices at the food court. Also, pack easy, portable snacks (such as nuts, reduced-fat string or ball-type cheese (like Babybel), or a piece of fresh fruit) to munch on mid-morning or mid-afternoon. If your schedule is jammed and you don’t have time to prepare something at home, consider a protein Bar, (our USN Protein Delite Bars see here) are convenient and healthy on-the-go options.
Shop early. Hit the shopping centre as soon as it opens. Not only will it be less crowded, but you’ll be out of there before lunchtime. It will also give you more room to do exercise type ‘intervals’ while you shop (see Tip 4).
Work in extra walking. You may have heard before, but we’ll remind you again: Parking in a spot that’s farthest from the mall entrance is a great way to log in extra steps. And whenever you can, skip the escalator and escalator/elevator in favour of the stairs. Carrying all your packages a bit further can’t hurt either.
Do intervals while you shop. Before you begin shopping or while you’re going from store to store, squeeze in a few intervals of really fast walking, alternating with some slow recovery walking in between. In addition to getting your heart pumping, this will clear your head before diving into the in-store fray.
Boost your self-esteem. Most likely your focus is on finding gifts for friends and family, but if you pass a great outfit, why not try it on in your new smaller size to see just how far you’ve come on your weight-loss journey? This will not only boost your self-esteem but also your commitment to sticking to the basics and staying on track as you face the excitement and challenges of the holidays and New Year ahead.