Christmas is approaching quickly and many people are already starting to relax with their health regime. Enjoy the yummy Christmas meals, but don't destroy all the hard work you've done this year! Here are some tips that your body - especially your gut - will love:
Choose foods low in fat
Did you know that a high-fat diet contributes to an unhealthy gut flora? The warm weather makes salads ideal dishes at Christmas dinner.
Always include fibre
If your gut bacteria do not get enough fibre, they will literally eat the walls of our colon. Choose nuts for nibbles, eat oats for breakfast and choose brown rice over white rice. Fibre will also help you to keep fuller for longer and aid digestion.
Spice up your meals
Cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg and cloves do not only give your meals & drinks a ‘Christmassy’ flavour, but also help with your gut health. Have you tried this Healthy Chai Smoothie?
Time for a drink?
Choose a good quality red wine rich in polyphenols, which microbes thrive on as an energy source and convert into immune protective chemicals. Kombucha is a great alternative to alcohol. The slightly sweet, slightly sour, bubbly beverage contains B vitamins and probiotics -- all of which can be good for our bodies and brains.
Keep hydrated
Water is important for a healthy digestive system. Add some berries or a squeeze of lime to add some flavour to your water.