Limit the impact of the festive season on chronic illness

Synonymous with the festive season is the desire to overindulge — not a good idea for those with a chronic illness. ut there are ways for those with a chronic illness to navigate the festive season, according to holistic health coach Anya ander.

“Plan ahead and be prepared. Inform your host what you can and cannot eat and bring your own meal if necessary,” says ander. “If you’re going to an event WKDW ZLOO EH VHUYLQJ VQDFNV RU ²QJHU IRRG try to eat a small meal before you go that includes some protein and healthy fat, or have a protein shake or even a boiled egg, if you can eat egg. This will help you not to feel hungry so that you make better choices and will help to balance blood sugar if tempted to eat sweet treats.”

ander stresses the importance of staying hydrated and drinking lots of water, especially if you’re planning on having a glass of wine.

“If you are going to a big celebratory dinner or lunch and you don’t want to be too restrictive, then eat consciously and slowly, which will help you to eat less and assist the digestive process. A good tip WR VWDELOLVH \RXU EORRG VXJDU LV WR ²UVW eat your greens — preferably a salad — then your protein and lastly the carbohydrates.

“Conscious eating slowly will help you to eat less and will help ease the digestive process. rinking a glass of water minutes before your meal will help you to feel fuller so you will eat and crave less traditional meal indulgences.

“o enjoy your meal without guilt and if you overindulge, don’t beat yourself up — be kind to yourself and just get back on track with your next meal.”

According to ander, going for a walk after a meal will help stabilise blood sugar. A family walk after Christmas lunch will help everyone to feel a lot better.

“Sometimes during the festive season you may need to create some physical and mental health boundaries. If you need space, go for a walk, step outside, say no or just take a few deep breaths.

e your own advocate and know your limits. ou are responsible for your own health.

“However, most importantly, have fun being with your family and friends. eing with family, friends and community is medicine too,” she concludes.

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