A team of NWU researchers say the answer may lie in experimenting more and cooking at home.

 

“Cook without adding too many fats and sugars, and freeze dishes to heat in the microwave on busy days,” says Prof Salome Kruger’s team at the Centre of Excellence for Nutrition.

 

While it’s understandable that families want to eat and make merry during the festive season, the team says we should put more effort into healthier eating as South Africa grapples with an increase in diabetes, cancers and hypertension.

 

Thumbs up for less processed options

 

“Eat more unprocessed and minimally processed foods and add flavour by using fresh or dried herbs in cooking, while keeping salt, sugar and fats or oils to a minimum. Look out for ready-to-eat options at supermarkets that have fewer ingredients on the ingredient list,” is the advice from Salome’s team.

 

Rather opt for whole foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, instead of convenient, ultra-processed foods that have a negative effect on the intake of essential vitamins, minerals and fibre.

 

What about the lucky few among us who might want to eat out thanks to that December bonus?

 

This is Salome’s advice: “If you buy food or eat in a restaurant, look out for less processed options, such as grilled steaks, baked potatoes, salads and stir-fried or roasted vegetables. Ask to get the sauce or dressing separately, so you can add only enough to add flavour.

 

“Of course, one would order favourite treats when eating out, but this is for special occasions. Try to eat more unprocessed and minimally processed food 80% to 90% of the time,” Salome suggests.

 

Enjoy yourself, but be mindful of the saying: “A moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips!”