The festive season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and delicious treats. It’s easy to get caught up in indulgence – after all, holiday foods often hold special meaning and memories. But enjoying the celebrations doesn’t have to mean abandoning healthy habits. With a bit of mindful planning, you can savour your favourite festive dishes and still feel good. Practice Portion Control It’s not necessary to avoid all the festive favourites; just be mindful of portions. Consider using a smaller plate so it naturally limits how much you pile on. Try to fill half your plate with colourful veggies or salad, one-quarter with lean protein, and one-quarter with the treat you’ve been eyeing. This way you’re getting nutrients and fibre to fill you up, while still allowing room for a bit of indulgence. You get to taste everything you love without overdoing it. Eat Slowly and Mindfully With all the excitement around, it’s easy to speed through meals. Instead, take your time. Chew t...

  Fad diets come and go, but a few trendy eating plans have dominated conversations in recent years. Chances are you know someone who swears by the ketogenic (“keto”) diet, sings the praises of the paleo diet, or schedules their meals around intermittent fasting. These diets promise weight loss and health benefits by breaking the mould of conventional eating. But do they really live up to the hype? In this article, we unpack the keto, paleo, and intermittent fasting diets – how they work, what the science says about their effectiveness, and whether they’re truly the magic bullets for weight loss and health that some proponents claim. We’ll take a warm, accessible look at the evidence so you can make informed decisions about these popular diet trends. The Ketogenic Diet: Carbs Out, Fat In The ketogenic diet is a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet. By drastically cutting carbs and upping fat intake (often 70–80% of daily calories from fat), the goal is to push the body into ke...

  Diabetes doesn’t have to mean endless complications. Thanks to modern medical advancements and lifestyle strategies, it’s entirely possible to manage diabetes effectively and reduce your risk of serious problems. From consistent blood sugar monitoring to balanced nutrition, each step you take can make a meaningful difference in your overall health. Here’s a comprehensive guide to staying on top of diabetes and preventing its common complications. Understanding Blood Sugar Control The cornerstone of diabetes management is blood sugar regulation. Monitoring your glucose levels helps you detect patterns and make timely adjustments in your diet or medication. Whether you use a glucometer or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), these tools offer immediate feedback that can guide your daily decisions. Healthy Eating Habits Nutrition is pivotal in managing diabetes. Meal’s rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables help stabilize blood glucose levels. Limiting su...

Diet plays a critical role in preventing and managing chronic diseases. Here are five keyways that diet impacts chronic health conditions: 1. Diet and Heart Disease A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can lead to the development of cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, consuming a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (such as those found in olive oil and avocados) can lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. 2. Diet and Type 2 Diabetes Excessive consumption of sugary foods and refined carbohydrates is linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. These foods cause spikes in blood sugar levels, which over time can lead to insulin resistance. A diet rich in fibre, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. 3. Diet and Cancer Certain dietary patterns are associated with an increased risk of cancer. Diets high in processed meats, r...