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.
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 fibre 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.
Roast potatoes
Potatoes can get a bad
press; however, the starchy veg is actually packed with immune-boosting vitamin
C and the essential electrolyte potassium – yes, even when roasted.
Furthermore, scientists have discovered that potatoes naturally contain
chemicals called kukoamines which help to lower blood pressure, while the skins
are rich in phytonutrients such as flavonoids which can help to prevent heart
disease. So, no need to feel guilty for tucking into that second helping of
spuds!
Parsnips
Parsnips are low in
calories but high in fibre, making them a perfect healthy accompaniment to your
Christmas dinner. Not only that, parsnips contain the antioxidant falcarinol
which can to reduce cancer risk, and are high in folate, which reduces risk of
high blood pressure and helps prevent birth defects in unborn babies.
Christmas
pudding
If you fancy something
sweet following your Christmas dinner, the good news is you can indulge
yourself while still reaping some great health benefits. Christmas cakes and
puddings may not be particularly low in fat, but a large proportion of their
ingredients is dried fruit which counts towards your daily portions of fruit
and veg and is high in nutrients and fibre. On top of that, they are packed
with health-boosting spices such as cinnamon, which can help control blood
sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties, and nutmeg, which is good
for digestion.
Wine
Many of us like to
accompany our Christmas dinner with a glass or two of wine. However, while it
is best not to drink too much (for your dignity as much as your health!), a
little bit of vino could actually be good for you. Research has found that,
when drunk in moderation, the antioxidants in red wine can help to cut heart
disease risk, protect against cancer and fight against wrinkles.
Enjoy yourself!
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