Top festive foods Brits would not sacrifice at Christmas – like roast potatoes
Pigs in blankets, roast potatoes, turkey breast, and stuffing, are some of the top festive foods – Brits would not be willing to sacrifice for healthier alternatives, a study has found.
One in three calorie-conscious Brits (32%) admit they will keep an eye on how much they eat over the festive season, as 14% are keen to try not to gain weight during this time.
However, the survey of 2,000 adults found that 31% struggle to say “no” to their favourite indulgent food and drink as they celebrate the run-up to Christmas.
And those with a sweet tooth are not prepared to forego their Christmas pudding or mince pies, or swap them out for something more figure-friendly.
But eight in 10 do feel that there is an emphasis on over-indulging in decadent foods in the lead-up to the big day. And a quarter of those polled feel this is not helped by famous portrayals of Father Christmas – as a character that is morbidly obese.
Over the years, the big man has been portrayed in popular media as far exceeding a healthy BMI of between 18.5 and 24.9.
In fact, based on an average of the top 10 biggest Santas in films, TV shows, and festive adverts, his BMI has actually been calculated at 41.5 – just tipping him into the morbidly, or severely, obese category, of a BMI over 40.
The largest portrayal appeared in Tim Burton's animated festive fright, “A Nightmare Before Christmas”, where he weighed in at a whopping 300 pounds, with a height of just 5 foot 5 inches – giving him an alarming BMI of 49.9. He is also on the larger side in “Elf” and “The Snowman”, where his BMI checks in at 44.7, and 45.5, respectively.
However, the slimmest Santa was played by Richard Attenborough in 1994's “Miracle on 34th Street”. At 5ft 6ins, and weighing 176 pounds, his BMI here is 28.4 – meaning he’s the only Santa who isn’t considered obese.
The analysis was conducted by researchers at ZAVA, who reviewed a combination of factors, such as the height of the actor, and compared visual depictions with imagery of body shapes and their known weights, to calculate his BMI.
Dr Babak Ashrafi, clinical lead for service development at online doctor, ZAVA, which compiled a “Nutritional Naughty and Nice List” featuring simple swaps for classic Christmas food and drinks, said: “Over the years, there have been many beloved depictions of Santa.
“But across all these variations, one thing has stood the test of time – and that’s him being on the larger side. In fact, his weight in most of these festive favourites is actually considered dangerous, and he would urgently need to change his lifestyle – otherwise, he could encounter a raft of weight-related problems, including diabetes and heart problems.
“As we are more conscious than ever when it comes to unhealthy portrayals having a knock-on impact on our own health, it would seem many believe Father Christmas could make a few healthier choices, to continue spreading festive cheer for many years to come.”
The research, conducted via OnePoll, also found 55% admit their healthy eating and drinking habits will “go out of the window” this Christmas. But a sensible 19% claim they always try to be healthy, so won’t change their habits at this time of year.
Dr Babak Ashrafi, at ZAVA, which offers medical treatments including weight-loss products, added: “As the holiday season tempts our taste buds with festive delights, it's an annual challenge to resist the allure of beloved treats.
“Christmas brings cherished traditions and flavours, making it difficult to say no to the classics we hold dear. While relishing these festive delights, it's important to savour in moderation, keeping a watchful eye on our intake and embracing mindful choices, to ensure that our celebrations are not only delightful, but also healthy.”
- Look at the research here
TOP 10 BIGGEST ON-SCREEN SANTAS – ACCORDING TO THEIR BMI:
- The Nightmare Before Christmas (movie, 1993) – 5 foot 5 inches (165cm), weighing 300 pounds = BMI of 49.9 (Severely Obese)
- The Snowman (TV, 1982), and Father Christmas (TV, 1991) – 5 foot 7 inches (170cm), weighing 290 pounds = BMI of 45.5 (Severely Obese)
- Elf (movie, 2003) – 5 foot 5 inches (165cm), weighing 270 pounds = BMI of 44.7 (Severely Obese)
- Fred Claus (movie, 2007) – 5 foot 9 inches (175cm), weighing 300 pounds = BMI of 44.2 (Severely Obese)
- Coca-Cola advert – 5 foot 10 inches (178cm), weighing 300 pounds = BMI of 43.0 (Severely Obese)
- Arthur Christmas (movie, 2011) – 5 foot 8 inches (173cm), weighing 280 pounds = BMI of 42.5 (Severely Obese)
- NORAD (Santa tracker) – 5 foot 7 inches (170cm), weighing 260 pounds = BMI of 40.7 (Severely Obese)
- The Santa Claus (movie, 1994) – 5 foot 8 inches (173cm), weighing 260 pounds = BMI of 39.5 (Obese)
- Santa Claus: The Movie (movie, 1985) – 5 foot 9 inches (175cm), weighing 250 pounds = BMI of 36.7 (Obese)
- Miracle On 34th Street (movie, 1994) – 5 foot 6 inches (168cm), weighing 175 pounds = BMI of 28.4 (Overweight)
- Santa Claus
- Christmas
- Food
- Obesity
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