At no time of the year do we overindulge more than at Christmas. The heavy, bloated feeling after a huge meal and too much drink does not leave anyone feeling happy let alone healthy. But it need not be this way. There are some simple ways of enjoying a happier and healthier Christmas this year.

A Christmas welcome - Island style!

If you have turkey, make sure it is organic, as the meat does not only taste better, it is also free from chemicals and additives. However there are great alternative recipes for vegetarians and for those who just want to try out something new. A home made nut roast is a fabulous alternative to the traditional Christmas dinner and will leave the most convinced meat eaters happy. You could try steaming vegetables instead of frying them, then sprinkle some nuts and seeds over them for a crunchy taste. Try some red cabbage cooked with half a cup of orange juice for reducing stress and some much needed vitamins B and C for a healthy immune system. Brussels sprouts, love them or hate them, are perfect for detoxifying your body. A nutrient called sulforaphane causes the liver to produce enzymes just for that. Home made houmous and guacamole with raw vegetables are excellent to nibble on in between meals instead of sausage rolls or crisps. Chestnuts make fantastic stuffing but are also delicious just eaten fresh out of the oven as a snack.

Now for the sweet stuff. Try a healthy fruit cake or carrot cake instead of  the traditional Christmas cake. Cream can easily be replaced with fat free Greek Yogurt, if necessary with a bit of honey and vanilla essence in it. You can find a Hawaiian Mince Pies recipe in my booklet instead of the traditional all butter mince pies. I also make a healthy version of the Italian Panettone in the breadmaker, which is delicious toasted for breakfast the next day or in a bread and butter pudding. The possibilities are endless and you can have fun experimenting with new recipes and surprising your family.