Great Tips to survive the festive season

It is natural when enjoying the company of family and friends, to overindulge in the wonderful flavours and drinks available this festive season.

The down side of this, is that it can leave us feeling sluggish, bloated and fatigued, a few extra kg’s may even appear from nowhere!!

We at the Clinic don’t want to stop you from celebrating this festive season, but we have a few tips that can help you weather better through this wonderful time.

Don’t over do the food
When you have social gatherings all day remember that fatty, sugary and salty foods put more pressure on your liver and digestion. Try looking towards salad and vegetables that are not too laden with creamy/oily dressings, instead of fried or richer foods. Having lighter meals will help you cope with the increased socialisation over Christmas.

Exercise
It is amazing what a difference keeping up your exercise can make to your digestion.

When we move our digestion is manually assisted and it really can make a difference to that blocked, bloated feeling and overall bowel function. Just 20-30 minutes most days can really help!

We also drink more water when exercising, this is important, especially in the hot weather.

Juices
Keep up your veggie juice each morning. Just because you will be partying later in the day, it doesn’t mean that everything needs to go out the window!  Having your veggie juice each morning will help your body process some of the things you will be having later in the day. It is great for hydration as well.

Always try to keep the fibre in your juices by using one of the more modern juicers that keeps the pulp within the juice. Make sure you add some water or coconut water for a complete veggie juice treat. Remember Hydration, hydration, hydration.

Reduce processed treats
Alternatives to processed treats may include some soy crisps, nuts, hummus with rice crackers, guacamole with carrot or celery sticks and summer fruits. You can really make a nice spread for people that is nutritious and healthy.

Keep tabs on your alcohol consumption
It is a relaxing time to enjoy a drinks with friends and family and in the warm weather it is easy to over indulge. To overcome this, have a glass of water or coconut water between each drink to keep you more hydrated and slow the effects of alcohol consumption.

You may also consider looking at the great range of mocktails available with lemon, lime juice and soda water. Try having some alcohol free days to give your body a chance to recover.

What happens if you do over indulge?

It happens, we know, it is Christmas and a festive time after all. If you have had too much to drink may we suggest that upon your arrival home, or before bed have:

• A Tresos B Activated tabs that you have from the clinic
• Drink a big glass of water

Hydration and Vitamin B depletion are the biggest causes of hangover the next day.

Have a merry, festive, safe and healthy Christmas and New Year!!