Enjoy the holidays, just don’t overindulge – health experts
Healthcare professionals urge all South Africans to focus on a good diet this holiday season.
It’s the holiday season and after a long busy year, you no doubt need a break to relax, travel, and indulge in delicious food and beverages for a few weeks.
“While the holidays are the perfect time for a mental holiday with family and friends, the body can take a knock with all the festive season activities,” said head of marketing for Releaf Pharmaceuticals, Lelani Rautenbach.
“And if you’re overindulging and not taking the right vitamins you won’t feel good and can cause harm.”
Fortunately, there are herbal and complementary supplements to keep you healthy and your energy levels up, so you can make beautiful memories and feel your best at the happiest time of the year.
Healthcare professionals recommend adding the following vitamins and supplements to your diet:
• L-Theanine for healthy sleep and less stress
While avoiding snacks and limiting screen time before bed can help you sleep better, experts recommend the powerful supplement, L-Theanine.
“Late nights, busy schedules, and a break in your routine can impact your sleep, which is detrimental to a person’s overall health,” Rautenbach said. L-Theanine helps the body relax and is scientifically proven to improve sleep which is exactly what you need this time of the year.
In the correct dosage, L-theanine can also reduce anxiety and relieve stress for up to eight hours.
“The holiday season can be stressful on many levels,” added Willco Janse van Vuuren, managing director at Releaf Pharmaceuticals. “But taking care of oneself, physically and mentally, can help you get the recovery you need.”
• Alkaline for perfect balance
High-sugar and fast-energy food comes with the holiday territory, and it can be challenging to be mindful of what to eat. This is not good news for the gut and overall health, as some foods can increase acid levels in the body, making you feel ill and more vulnerable to illness.
“Do your best to include high-fiber foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, in your diet this holiday season. Do your best not to overindulge in sweets and refined carbohydrates to maintain a healthy gut and optimal pH,” Rautenbach suggested. Add an alkaline supplement to reduce acid levels and keep the body healthy and free of nausea, bloating, and heartburn.
