Leading integrative health and nutrition coach Karen Cummings-Palmer's top tips for a balanced 2018
After the indulgences of Christmas, health, beauty and nutrition consultant Karen Cummings-Palmer gives TOAST her top tips for achieving balance this year (and beyond) whether you are the guest or the host…
KAREN’S TOP TIPS FOR A BALANCED NEW YEAR
- Up Your Vitamins: In January when it is cold and dark I up my supplements, adding a little extra vitamin C, D and zinc
- Tumeric Tea: I drink a lot of turmeric tea with warm water, a splash of lemon juice and a grind of black pepper
- Warming Dishes: I stick to warming stews and bone broths in the evenings with the occasional glass of organic red wine
ON BEING A ‘HEALTHY HOST’
- Help Your Guests Feel Good: I think guests really appreciate having things on offer that make them feel good – start with a healthy shot before moving on to the wine - ginger, beet and lemon juice will help boost immunity and support the liver.
- Add Cucumber: to your jug of water, it has an alkalizing effect on the body and its full of hair and skin boosting silca.
- Plant Based Dishes: Don’t be afraid to make plant-centric meals even if you are not a vegetarian. Small amounts of great quality meat and fish with lots of seasonal vegetables amd plenty of herbs and spices can be really impressive.
- After Dinner Treat: Serve turmeric tea for an anti-inflammatory boost after dinner and make your own organic chocolate by way of desert and send guests away with a couple wrapped in parchment.
STAYING ‘GOOD’ AS A GUEST
- Relax: I think it is important to relax! Try and eat food that supports you 80% of the time. Having pasta at a dinner party occasionally when you might choose quinoa at home won’t do too much damage, but I do think it is ok to say no to certain things.
- Consider Your Drink Choice: I never drink cocktails for example – all that sugar and liquor is not helpful and nobody is offended.
- Restist Temptation: rarely eat desserts especially if they are shop bought but if someone has gone to the trouble of making a cake I will have a little – choose your battles and don’t arrive at the party too hungry!
For more from Karen you can find her website here - Karen Cummings Palmer. You can also check out our recent Spotlight interview with her over on TheEdit now.