THE A-STAR INGREDIENT

WELCOME

‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY, and indulge a little

Get healthy the hfg way

Eating and living well for long-term good health – that’s the HFG mission. We don’t believe in short-term fad diets, but making small changes for big gains. Read how our experts can help you

LET’S TALK…

So what’s on your mind? Let us know – via email, facebook and twitter

HOW I STAY HEALTHY

A fierce advocate of seasonal eating, Valentine talks about his passion for winter veg and how to make them special

HEALTH NOTES

Diet and fitness facts for your wellbeing

THINK YOURSELF SLIM

Experts believe mindfulness can help with weight management – and there’s no better time to start than the season of excess, say dietitians Tracy Kelly and Dahlia Kulkarni

HAVE A MINDFUL CHRISTMAS

Dahlia shares the mindful eating approach she uses with her clients. Try her simple techniques this month and they’ll soon become a habit, allowing you to reach your weight-loss goals

YOUR QUICK SHAPE-UP ADVENT CALENDAR

You can still trim inches from your waist in time for Christmas, with our one-a-day easy exercise ideas… And we’ve got some stellar treats to be won along the way!

KEEP THE PRESSURE D♥WN

Stress can send our blood pressure soaring, but over-indulging may be more harmful, explains British Heart Foundation senior dietitian Victoria Taylor

WEIGHT-LOSS STAR

Fiona tapped into technology to achieve her weight-loss goals, and learned how to rethink – and reduce – her calorie intake

THE KEY NUTRIENTS to WINTER- PROOF YOUR BODY

Which vitamins and minerals can help protect against seasonal ailments? HFG dietitian Jennifer Low looks at the evidence, and pinpoints foods to stock up on

WHAT TO COOK THIS MONTH

Our recipe consultant Phil Mundy uses everyday ingredients to create easy, tasty recipes. Each dish is analysed by nutrition consultant Juliette Kellow

HFG’S WEEKLY DIET PLANNER

OUR MENU PLAN is designed to help you lose around

FAMILY MEALS sorted!

Each month, we bring you a batch of healthy, quick and easy midweek suppers, with meat, chicken, fish and veggie options to please everyone

PASS the HEALTHY PLATTER

Canapés don’t have to be brimming with fat or swamped with sugar. Kick off the party with these good-for-you bites

FESTIVE SUPER-CHARGER

A high-protein treat for late risers or a leisurely brunch to share with the family – this recipe has ‘healthy holiday’ written all over it

THE ROAST with the most…

Worrying about the Christmas Day blowout? There’s no reason not to go lighter with the classic main when it tastes this good

6pm PANIC

You can’t beat a dumpling or two on a dark night… Comforting to know this is low in calories, too

MELT - in - the - MOUTH MAINS

Tender meat, depth of flavour… Our slow-cooked dishes are designed to be savoured. Turn off the TV, relax and give your taste buds a treat

CHRISTMAS PUDDING

Looking to rein in the festive fat count and/or serve up a pud that’s suitable for gluten-free guests? This delicious recipe makes a worthy addition to the feast of the year

DOUBLE DELIGHT

Our spicy cake and rich, fruity compôte add a perfect sweet touch to special meals

THIS MONTH WE L♥VE

This month we’re sharing our best buys for people who

THE HFG CHRISTMAS SURVIVAL GUIDE

Don’t let stress, anxiety, stomach upsets, hangovers or colds get in the way of your fun. My tips for a well stocked storecupboard and a few home remedies will set you up for your healthiest ever party season

IN DEFENCE OF THE HUMBLE SPUD

Recent headlines have suggested we ditch potatoes, but nutrition scientist Dr Ros Miller, of the British Nutrition Foundation, disagrees

AMERICANRE TRO

With its all-American feelgood vibe, the lure of the diner can be hard to resist. But think slimmed-down and you’re good to go

DATES

Don’t leave them in the box on the coffee table – their rich, natural sweetness enhances so many dishes

BEFORE YOU pour, dollop or squirt…

…check out the nutrition in shop-bought relishes, sauces and condiments. You may be surprised at the sugars and salt in some popular choices

REFERENCES

Your guide to the research behind this month’s stories and features

NUTRITION LOWDOWN

We cut through the science to help you work out how our recipes – and the foods you buy in the supermarket – fit into a balanced, healthy diet

5 TOP FACTS to TAKE AWAY

Our favourite healthy snippets and tips from the experts in this month’s issue