Holiday Health

Happy Holidays!

During this time of year, many of us tend to partake in grandma's ham and auntie's pie. Besides the few pounds that many of us put on during the holidays, some people also have digestive issues due to overeating and indulging in rich food. An alternative to avoiding the dessert table, is to be selective in what you choose.

Dark Chocolate: A number of studies have shown that dark chocolate has antioxidant properties and can protect the inner lining of blood vessels from damage.
Ginger: A good treatment for nausea and is an herb that prevents formation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract.
Cinnamon: Studies on the effects of cinnamon and type 2 diabetes show how it can help balance blood sugar.
Cranberries: This tasty food has been shown to help urinary track infections.
Peppermint: Some studies have show peppermint can have a reduction in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.

Another alternative is to use digestive enzyme when you are eating a heavy meal or a food that you are not accustomed to. A digestive enzyme is usually a blend of protease, which digests protein; lipase, which digests fats; and amylase which helps digest carbohydrates.

So for me this holiday season, besides ham and pie, I will also be eating dark chocolate, ginger bread, snicker doodles, cranberry sauce and candy canes!

- Community Assistant