Warm-Up to Good Times

How exactly is the damage done?
• Excessive alcohol dries and dehydrates the mucus lining of the intestines, making it vulnerable to damage
• The oil content of an excessive quantity of fried foods tests the production of bile, which breaks down the components of oil and aids in digestion. If the bile cannot handle the excess consumption of oil, the remaining oil coats the intestine lining and impedes the process of nutrition
• Mithai heavy in desi ghee slows down the colon movements, and causes constipation and gas build-up
• Overdosing on tea and coffee coats the intestinal lining and coagulates the blood, thereby slowing down nutrient absorption

Since much of this will be unavoidable in the near future, how do I take precautions now?
According to Delhi-based nutritionist Dr Shikha Sharma, there are two issues to keep in mind—health and weight. ‘‘Both have to be taken care of,’’ she says. ‘‘But waking up to the dangers early does not mean you can do what you want later.”

I need to keep a check on my weight. How?
‘‘Getting the body in as much shape as possible before the festive season is important,’’ says Sharma. Exercise and follow a strict diet:
• A light breakfast—just fruits and fruit juices
• A high-fibre lunch—missi roti and vegetables
• A low-calorie dinner—brown rice and vegetables
• Avoid overdosing on non-veg and heavy foods
• Go off sugar for a month
• Consciously stick to your water intake even as it becomes cooler

• Stay away from alcohol and cigarettes
• Cut down on partying

I don’t have weight worries, but am concerned about my health.
Sharma suggests:
• Start your day with a decoction of tulsi and ginger water or cabbage juice with ajwain for a month to tackle acidity and liver problems
• A month of no-oil food and a high-fibre diet, if you have cholesterol problems
• A daily dose of karela (bitter gourd) juice and a high-fibre diet for a month if you’re diabetic

And how do I tackle the aftermath of the inevitable huge meals?
Detoxification is key, says Sharma. ‘‘This means flushing out toxins accumulated by excessive drinking or overindulgence in rich food. The detox diet needs to be followed for just a day, but it should be a holiday since rest aids the flow of toxins.”