Give your health a boost with these traditional festive foods
When we think of festive eating, “healthy” and “good for you” aren’t two phrases that spring to mind. However, tucking into your Christmas dinner could actually be better for you than you think. Here are the surprising health benefits of a Christmas dinner.
Turkey
Turkey is a traditional part of Christmas dinner and luckily it is also extremely good for you. Turkey is a great source of high quality protein, as well as being naturally low in fat – particularly when the skin is removed. Not only this, turkey is rich in vitamins B3 and B6 (important for brain health and energy production) and zinc and selenium (good for the immune system and skin). Furthermore, the festive bird is high in tryptophan, which can help to boost your mood.
Chestnuts
Whether you eat them with sprouts, in a veggie-friendly nut roast or added to stuffing, chestnuts are a great way to boost your health at Christmas time. Unlike most nuts, chestnuts are surprisingly low in fat and also an excellent source of vitamin C. On top of this, chestnuts are a good source of protein, fiber and nutrients, including iron, B vitamins and folate.
Cranberry sauce
Cranberry sauce is a staple of many Christmas dinners, so it may comes as good news to lots of us that the popular condiment is packed with antioxidants and nutrients essential for good health. Several studies have identified links between consuming cranberries and reduced risks of heart disease and breast cancer.
Bread sauce
While bread is often given the cold shoulder by those of us watching our waistlines, this breadcrumb based sauce is actually good for your health when enjoyed in moderation. As well as being high in fiber and calcium, homemade bread sauce traditionally contains onion and cloves, which have antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Brussels sprouts
Many people claim to hate sprouts – perhaps due to their unappealing smell or appearance. However, if you can get past your aversion to this traditional Christmas veg, you could be doing your health a big favour. By tucking into your sprouts on Christmas day you will be filling your body with plenty of essential nutrients, including vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids (great for the heart and brain) and cancer-fighting substances, glucosinolates.
Carrots
Carrots have long had a reputation for helping you to see in the dark, and it may be that this is not far from the truth. The vibrant vegetable is packed with carotenoids such as alpha-carotene, beta-carotene and lutein, which help to protect vision and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, as well as helping to protect against cancer.
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