TH stmas oms eep ear

t health and reduce inflammation. ’re also high in fibre which can curb tipation and regulate insulin levels.” Instead of just having cranberries with Christmas lunch, make a winter salad of mixed leaves, roasted squash, topped with grilled halloumi cheese and a drizzle of cranberry sauce, says nutritionist Jane Michell.

You can also add cranberry sauce to sandwiches. “It’s high in health-boosting vitamins C,

K and A,” says Jane. Don’t just buy bags of whole nuts during the festive season, keep them on your shopping list all year round.

They’re packed with healthy fats and nutrients, and are far better for you than packs of salted, flavoured peanuts. Having to crack the nut before you eat it is a perfect way to keep portion size under control – and it can also provide you with a great tension release! Literally. With the mistletoe hanging, Christmas is spent doling out more hugs than ever as we spend time reconnecting with extended family – and it seems the personal touch has benefits that mean we should stay touchy-feely all year around. According to scientist and author Dr Paul Zak (otherwise known as Dr Love), hugging is a simple way to keep the happiness hormone oxytocin flowing, which helps to reduce cardiovascular stress and improves immune system performance. All year we are slaves to to-do lists dictated by our work schedules and the endless number of tasks we need to get done, says Angela.

“At Christmas, even if only for a few days, we can slow down, switch off from work and are able to simply ‘be’.

“There is a lesson here for us all. Carve out an hour or so to just ‘be’ every week, and give your brain a chance to switch off.” “Giving is one of the things in life that is mutually beneficial,” says Angela.

“The recipient feels great and the giver does too.” Apparently kindness changes our brain chemistry. It boosts levels of dopamine and serotonin, which Although many resolutions fail before the end of January, thinking about possible health improvements after Christmas is a good thing. But, say experts, focus on specific goals rather than vague resolutions.

Resolving to just ‘get fit’ can mean you never really know if you’ve actually achieved what you set out to do. Deciding to work out three times a week, however, is an actionable, trackable goal. “We are brilliant at engaging with loved ones over the festive holidays,” says Angela. “Sharing laughs, hugs and stories with those close to us is a perfect way to relax. But as soon as the daily routine kicks back in we can often forget how good it feels to spend quality time with family.

“In 2019, aim to create more space in your life to socialise with others, share meals or even simply call those you might not see until next Christmas.”