12 Superfoods of Christmas

Indulging during Christmas isn't necessarily harmful to your body if you select your festive foods wisely…

During Christmas, many people, even those who are usually mindful of their diet, tend to eat more than usual. However, most of us don't realize that festive foods can actually benefit our bodies; it's all about the choices we make to turn the Christmas feast into a truly healthy one.

Whether you're looking to improve your mood, sleep better, increase your energy, or boost your immune system, you can find the perfect meal on the festive dinner table. Let's explore which special festive foods can be beneficial.

1. Walnuts

Walnuts are a great nut to crack open at Christmas. They are rich in omega 3 fats and just one small portion will provide you with more than the daily recommended intake. They help protect against cardiovascular disease, cancer and skin problems and are great at increasing brain power – you only have to look at a walnut to see it looks like a brain. Raw and activated are top nuts.

2. Greens

Antioxidants can save your day because they protect your DNA from free radical damage/oxidative stress. Chop it, chew it, salad it, sir fry it, juice it, blend it in your shakes, Nutri blast it.

Do whatever it takes to get extras in while you are drinking and eating more. They keep your immune system strong and protect against heart disease, diabetes, cancer, arthritis and everything else you can think of.

Go eat some right now!!!

3. *Christmas pud (what I can hear you saying!)

Christmas Pud contains loads of healthy ingredients. Raisins can help head off high blood pressure, provide energy-boosting iron and are rich in protective antioxidants, while sultanas are a source of calcium, magnesium and manganese which strengthen bones and help head off osteoporosis. The currants in the pud can help combat sniffles by inhibiting the flu virus, reducing inflammation in the airways and boosting levels of friendly gut bacteria that strengthen the immune system. Also eggs are an excellent source of vitamin D, a nutrient under increasing focus as a key factor in immunity and general health.

*Yes it still contains lots of extra calories so be sure to moderate and exercise the extra energy off.

4. Salmon (not if you are vegan)

Salmon is an excellent source of omega 3 fats which help protect against heart disease, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. They also help keep the brain healthy, fighting off depression and protecting against Alzheimer’s disease. Salmon is also a great source of vitamin B12 and selenium, helping to protect against cancer.

5. Nutmeg

Nutmeg contains many anti-oxidants essential for optimal health. It contains good levels of minerals such as copper, potassium, iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium making it a great spice to protect against heart health.

6. Carrots

Carrots are a highly nutritious vegetable containing an excellent source of antioxidants. Rich in carotenes, they help protect against cardiovascular disease and promote good eye sight and night vision.

7. Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a perfect winter vegetable as they are packed with immune boosting properties including high levels of vitamin C. Known as part of the ‘brassica’ family, these vegetables are great at helping the body detoxify potential toxins, a must for this time of year!

8. Prawns (not if you are vegan)

Prawns are another good source of protein. Protein is essential for growth and development and for boosting energy levels. Prawns also contain high levels of selenium, protecting against cancer and encouraging cell repair.

9. Cinnamon

Cinnamon has great anti-inflammatory properties, helping to fight conditions such as asthma and arthritis. It has been used for years as a digestive aid, helping to relieve heartburn, bloating and gas and it also has amazing anti-bacterial action that can help reduce those nasty bugs that can cause food poisoning.

10. Turkey (not if you are vegan)

Turkey is a fantastic source of protein and contains high levels of tryptophan which is a precursor to the hormone’s serotonin and melatonin, essential for good mood and sleep, explaining that post-Christmas dinner nap!

11. Cranberries

Cranberries are an amazing source of vitamin C and have long been used for their anti-inflammatory protection. Their unique structure makes it difficult for certain types of bacteria to latch on to the lining of the urinary tract helping to fight off urinary tract infections.

12. Parsnips

Parsnips are a great source of potassium helping to protect from high blood pressure. They also contain good levels of folate which helps lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid associated with increased risk of heart disease.

Enjoy your Christmas Foods.