Festive socials, stress and lack of sleep make for the perfect storm over Christmas. But by choosing low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods which nourish your nervous system, you can keep your immunity humming and your figure intact, despite the odd indulgence.
‘A little preparation really does go a long way,’ says naturopathic nutritionist Clare Fairhurst. ‘If you’re making poached eggs in the morning, pop a tray three-day of vegetables in the oven at the same time for your lunch; that way you’re getting a host of phytonutrients, and B and C vitamins. Toast some pumpkin seeds and you’re also adding tryptophan to calm your nerves, zinc to boost your immune system and iron for energy.’