NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS OF FESTIVE FOODS
Being presented with an array of tradition foods is the best part of the festive season. It could affect our health and overall fitness regime if not consumed in moderation. Not everything consumed during the happy occasion is actually ruinous to your health. Here are the food nutrition of some common festive foods which can be of benefit to your body.
Turkey is a staple at Christmas dinners. It actually contains a plethora of nutrients that are beneficial for your body. By consuming three-ounce of skinless turkey meat, it provides you with nearly 25 grams of protein and other important vitamins and minerals. Some of the nutrients include magnesium, potassium, selenium, zinc as well as Vitamin B. White turkey meat offers a much lower amount of calories and fat intake, while darker meat provides vitamins and minerals
Sweet Potatoes
When it comes to healthy eating, sweet potatoes are filled with antioxidants which consist of immune-supporting vitamins A and C, as well as energy-boosting vitamin B. Sweet potatoes also have other nutrients like manganese (aids in producing collagen, fosters skin and bone health), potassium (assists in managing blood pressure), riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, and are also high in carotenoids. Its anti-inflammatory features also help prevent you from being diagnosed with chronic diseases like cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart diseases. This root vegetable is also fat-free, and low in calories and sodium, rightfully claiming the title of a ‘superfood’. It is easily consumed baked, mashed, roasted, stuffed or even as a pie.
The options are endless when it comes to how cranberries can be consumed. They can be eaten fresh, dried, part of a turkey stuffing or even as a side sauce during festive meals. These berries have polyphenols, antioxidants which shield the body against any free radicals and help the body ward off infections. Cranberries can also help your body fight off urinary tract infection and E.coli, on top of protecting your body from regular sicknesses like flu or cough. Cranberries also aid in bringing down your risk in contracting certain types of cancers, vision loss due to old age, shrinks low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, and maintains good oral health by preventing bacteria from staying on teeth.
Pumpkin
Healthy eating can be achieved during the festive season with pumpkin pies. They are not only delicious but also loaded with an abundance of nutrients. Pumpkins mainly contain Vitamin A, and it helps improve your vision health, boosts your immune system, averts cognitive decline and ensures good health of teeth, skin and bones. Pumpkins are also filled with fibre, Vitamin C and K, as well as potassium. For a healthier meal option, cut back on the pie crust size to help you watch the amount of sugar and fat that are added into the dish.
Brussel Sprouts
Brussel sprouts are regarded as the vegetable gem of the festive season as it is packed with nutrients. It can be eaten roasted, charred or even as part of a salad. Besides being packed with antioxidant qualities that can fight off cancer, they also help in improving cardiovascular health and give your body good digestive system support. If you are looking to try something new for the upcoming Christmas dinner, opt to roast the sprouts and add some chopped nuts as well as cranberries to the mix.
Certain traditional festive dishes can actually furnish you with good food nutrition. With these five super foods, you can now safely indulge in festive dishes without hampering your fitness goals.
