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Dubai, UAE, September 8, 2016: NMC Healthcare, the region's largest private healthcare provider, is sharing some simple tips for staying healthy during the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebrations.
Traditionally a time for sharing generous meals and spending time at home with family and friends, the occasion of Eid al-Adha is a joyous occasion, but brings with it temptations to over-indulge into rich cuisines and take a break from exercising.
But there are some simple steps everyone can take to ensure they make healthier choices, whilst still enjoying this most special of occasions.
1. Make informed food choices
“Being aware of what you put on your plate is perhaps one of the most obvious pieces of advice”, comments NMC Healthcare's Ms. Lamis Akkad, Dietician at NMC Royal Hospital, Khalifa City, she further adds, “many people are unaware of just how much difference small changes can make. Lamb and other red meat are the traditional dishes served during Eid al-Adha, but they also carry highest fat and harmful cholesterol contents. People should certainly enjoy their traditional dish, but in moderation; swapping a few red meat-heavy meals for poultry or vegetarian options making sure the kilos don't creep up,” she said.
“And if you are hosting, ensure the fat is trimmed off meat before cooking,” she added.
2. Serve smaller portions and listen to your body
“Try serving yourself just half of your usual portion and wait twenty minutes before going back for more,” suggests Ms. Akkad. “Your body takes 20 minutes to recognize that it is full, so wait before serving yourself second helpings – as you might be surprised to notice how much it takes to make you full. If you are being presented with a plate full of food, try to eat slowly and stop when you have had enough, rather than when the plate is empty.”
3. Incorporate some gentle exercise
“Walk rather than sleep off your meals,” said Dr. Riyada Edward Toma Oweis, Consultant – Family Medicine, NMC Royal Hospital, Khalifa City “The weather is beginning to cool down and a short evening stroll can help with the digestion of large meals, as well as provide an enjoyable opportunity to spend some quality time with your family away from phones and screens.
“If you're spending some time at the pool or beach with your family, try to fit in some swimming,” said Dr. Oweis “Vigorous swimming can burn up to 700 calories per hour so if you're lucky enough to have a swimming pool at home, start the day with a dip and enjoy the mind and body benefits for the rest of the day.”
4. Kitchen health and safety
“Entertaining is one of the most enjoyable parts of Eid al-Adhr, and there are some simple ways to make sure food is prepared safely,” says Ms. Akkad
“Making food for large numbers can leave the cook rushing around, sometimes forgetting kitchen safety basics such as thoroughly washing and drying hands before touching food and after handling raw meat,” said Ms. Akkad
“In addition, preparing foods which you do not usually cook, in large quantities, can mean the risk of food poisoning increases if there are question marks over cooking times. Ensure recipes are followed and all food is piping hot before serving. If you are re-heating food, ensure it is warmed right through, and get rid of any leftovers after two days unless you freeze them,” she added.
5. Check health advice if travelling
“Eid is the ideal time to travel, but don't let the excitement of those last minute deals make you forget about your health,” said Dr. Oweis “Ensure you have arranged any necessary medication or inoculations, as well as travel insurance ahead of time. Specifically, pay close attention to health advisories in regions known for diseases like malaria, yellow fever, tuberculosis etc.” she concluded.
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