How to Stay Healthy (and Avoid Gaining Weight) During Easter

Lamb roast, red eggs, cozonac, cake, sweet and savory pies, chocolate bunnies, juice, wine, and other festive drinks… How many calories are hidden in this Easter menu? Probably fewer than at Christmas—but still far more than your body actually needs.

We’re not here to tell you to completely avoid Easter dishes that many wait all year for. We’re as passionate about food as we are about cooking. But we do have a festive strategy that helps us enjoy the holidays with peace of mind, a healthy body, and no extra pounds. Here are some practical tips to help you stay on track during the Easter break:

1. Load Up on Raw Vegetables

Unlike the winter holidays, Easter comes with the advantage of fresh greens and veggies that actually taste great. Green onions, radishes, wild garlic, lettuce, and spinach are just what your body craves. Fill your plate with two parts vegetables, one part whole grains (like whole wheat bread), and one part protein (eggs, roast, lamb).

This is not only a smart way to avoid overindulgence but also the best way to transition back to your regular eating plan—especially if you’ve been fasting for 40 days.

2. Say NO to the Chocolate Bunny

It’s hard to resist a fluffy, adorable bunny—especially one made of chocolate. But leave the chocolate bunnies for someone else. Here’s a smarter option: choose small, individually wrapped chocolate eggs. One or two pieces will satisfy your sweet tooth, and you’ll avoid accidentally eating an entire chocolate rabbit in one sitting.

3. Hide the Cozonac

Unlike chocolate, cozonac is almost impossible to avoid. You only get to enjoy it twice a year, and once it’s on the table, it’s hard to say no. The problem is that cozonac is always in plain sight.

Try keeping it tucked away and bringing it out just once or twice a day. That way, you’ll avoid unconscious snacking and enjoy each slice more mindfully.

4. Take Control of Dessert

Make your Easter desserts at home so you can control the amount of sugar and fat. There’s no shortage of delicious and lighter desserts you can prepare:

• Panna cotta with forest berries
• “1000-layer” apple cake by KitchenAid
• Elderflower and strawberry parfait with green pepper

When you make them yourself, you know exactly what goes into them—and you can enjoy guilt-free treats.

5. The Power of Breakfast

If you’re not hosting this year and can’t control the lunch or dinner menu, at least make sure your breakfast is healthy. No one says you have to eat lamb and red eggs at every meal.

Start your day with a fiber-rich green smoothie made in a blender, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the Easter feast without overdoing it later.

6. Move, Hydrate, Relax

Be active, enjoy the spring air, drink plenty of water—good advice not just for Easter, but for the entire season. Spend time in the sun with your loved ones and recharge your batteries. Summer vacations are still a few months away.

Until then, have a joyful and healthy Easter celebration!