Since the Eid celebrations (which last anywhere from 2-3 days) are only a few days away, overindulging during this time is always a given. And before you say you are not celebrating, well, down here, friends, colleagues, and neighbors always invite their non-Muslim brothers and sisters to join in on the festivities (and it’s rude to refuse). As food (and family) is at the core of Eid celebrations, one is always surrounded by traditional abundance, which makes it all too easy to overindulge in the plentiful delicious treats that are available during this time.

To try and stop you from overindulging, we have Freda Molamphy – Spinneys Dubai’s health and nutrition expert – share some simple tips to bear in mind, which should help keep your food intake a little more balanced, and ensure you have a healthy and happy Eid.

Tips to Avoid Overindulging During Eid Celebrations

Freda Molamphy – Health, and Nutrition Expert

Eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, and salads which help to balance the richness of other foods.
Focus more on lighter protein dishes i.e. fish and chicken.
Drink lots of plain water rather than sweet drinks and sodas as these are loaded with hidden sugars.
Try to keep fiber intake high – wholegrain breakfast cereals, slices of bread, pasta, etc. Live probiotic yogurts and fresh Laban also assist with gut health.
Avoid continuous snacking on nuts, chips, dried fruits, etc. during the day and aim to eat only at mealtimes. If you are indulging, try to choose plain unsalted nuts and fresh fruits.
If Eid is super-indulgent, try to eat lightly the following day.
Do some exercise each day if possible – a walk with family, a swim or even some Pilates or Yoga at home.
At family meals and Eid celebrations, take small portions of the wonderful foods on offer, savor each food, and eat slowly.