Discover the magic of Christmas superfoods that not only add festive flavour to your meals but also nourish your body during the holiday season. The festive season undoubtably comes with rich meals, sweet treats, and endless celebrations. Amongst the indulgence, there is an open opportunity to embrace foods that not only taste amazing but also pack a powerful nutritional punch. Let’s talk Christmas superfoods; seasonal delights that can help you stay energised, support your immunity, and even balance out some of those extra holiday calories.
Whether it’s colour that’s added to your Christmas day salad to your salads or a pop of cinnamon, a traditional Christmas favourite, superfoods can effortlessly fit into your holiday traditions. They’re not about skipping the fun or avoiding indulgence but enhancing your festive meals with ingredients that make you feel great.
In this blog, we’ll uncover some of the top superfoods to enjoy during the holidays and share simple ways to incorporate them into your favourite Christmas dishes. Let’s make this season as nourishing as it is joyful!
Christmas superfoods – Cherries
There is no denying that cherries is one of the first things that comes to mind when you think about Christmas. This is often due to the colour association, and the seasonal availability here in the southern hemisphere. It is not uncommon to see them as an addition to lots of popular desserts over the season.
Don’t fret about those cherry filled cakes much longer, because cherries are a rich source of antioxidants and polyphenols. The role of antioxidants in the diet is to clear the body of damaging free radicals.
They may particularly benefit those suffering from chronic inflammation which contributes to diseases such as:
- gout,
- pancreatitis or
- allergic conditions like
- asthma,
- eczema,
- hay fever and
- hives due to cyanidin and quercetin.
Studies have shown that tart cherry juice can improve sleep and speed up post-workout recovery, increase training capacity and improve performance in races by reducing pain in the muscles.
Christmas superfoods – Prawns
Put another shrimp on the barbie! No matter how much it is denied, it seems like prawns are a staple food in the Australian summer time. The good news? They are good for you!
They are a great source of lean protein, with minimal fat and are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that:
- support heart and brain health,
- reduce inflammation,
- promote healthy vision and skin,
- vital for overall growth and development.
Vitamins and minerals such as selenium and copper are found in large amounts in prawns. Selenium is important for thyroid health and copper contributes to energy production. The omega 3 fats in prawns lowers your LDL (bad) cholesterol and increases the blood content of (good) HDL cholesterol. So, enjoy those prawns – just go easy on the additional cream and butter they may come with!
Christmas superfoods – Mangoes
We’ve mentioned them before, but luckily, they are in season all through the summer! Mangos are loaded with antioxidants; vitamins A, C and E, plus phytonutrients that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. The prebiotic fibre in mango keeps your digestive system healthy by providing fuel to the good bacteria living in your gut. This food can be enjoyed fresh or as a recovery smoothie after exercise – blend a mango with 1/2 a frozen banana and some coconut water and a big spoonful Greek yoghurt – perfect on a hot summer’s day!
Christmas superfoods – Cinnamon
Christmas officially begins with the lighting of a cinnamon candle, and you cannot say otherwise! Cinnamon is a flavourful spice with impressive health benefits, thanks to its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity, making it especially beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
Cinnamon also supports heart health by reducing cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. Additionally, its antimicrobial effects can boost immune defences by fighting off bacteria and fungi. Beyond physical health, cinnamon may contribute to improving brain function and provides protective benefits against neurodegenerative diseases. With its versatility in both sweet and savoury dishes, cinnamon is a delicious way to promote overall wellness.
In summary
Christmas superfoods bring a perfect blend of festive flavour and nutrition, making it easy to enjoy the holidays while supporting your health and wellbeing. Incorporating these superfoods into your Christmas celebrations is a simple yet effective way to enjoy the season while supporting your health. These festive ingredients add colour, flavour, and nourishment to your holiday table. By making mindful choices and adding these powerful foods to your meals, you can indulge in the joy of the season without compromising your wellbeing. So, whether you’re hosting a feast or savouring quiet moments with loved ones, let these superfoods be your secret to a healthier, happier holiday!
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