How to keep healthy, fit this festive season

It is the festive season. For many people, this means indulging in a lot of eating and drinking. While some of the eating may be healthy, others may be a health risk. Here are things you can do to keep your festive celebrations healthy.

The meals people eat during the festive season are determined by several factors including the value often attached to Christmas, family norms of celebration and financial ability.

Many people often forget about their health and diet, and instead use the opportunity of the festive season to over-indulge.

No matter what season it is important for people to eat the right type of food with the necessary nutrients.

While the festive season is a time to indulge and make merry, people also need to ensure they do not compromise their health. Here are a few things to consider.

Balanced foods - a balanced diet is crucial during the festive season. This, means eating foods that are rich in carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and essential fats. For instance, carbohydrates contain starch, a major source of energy that the body needs for proper functioning.

Protein- These are energy-giving foods that are essential for the body to grow and build muscles.

Fruits and vegetables- Fruits and vegetables are not only a good source of vitamins and minerals, they also help to lower the risk of heart diseases, stroke and some cancers. Fruits and vegetables are also naturally rich in micro-nutrients, which are essential nutrients for the body.

Fat - Fat is essential for the body to function well. However, while most fat is bad, there are good fats such as Omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to lowering of bad cholesterol in the body. Omega-3 fatty oils also lower the risk of developing heart diseases. They can be found in olive oil, nuts, fish, and various seed oils.

Water- Drinking water regularly keeps the body hydrated, aids digestion and helps a person lose weight.

Cooking method - food should not be over-cooked, as this may cause some of the essential nutrients to be lost. Food should be eaten as soon as it is cooked while it still has heat-sensitive minerals.

Alcohol intake - Most festivities are incomplete without alcohol, those who feel they have to drink during the festive period should do so with caution. Apart from alcohol containing a lot of calories, it could also lead one to drink-driving, which subsequently may lead to accidents.

Binge eating- Binge eating usually leads to conditions such as constipation and indigestion. Another consequence of overeating is indigestion. This is a condition which causes a feeling of fullness or discomfort during or after a meal.

Exercise- Most people have extra time over the holiday season to engage in regular exercise. This will help to burn off the excess calories and fat gained over the same period. It can also get a person into the habit of exercising regularly after the festive season is over.

Stay healthy and strong this Festive Season!