How to Eat During the Holidays: Advice from the Ministry

The Ministry of Health of Armenia has issued a statement outlining how to maintain a healthy diet during the holiday season.

“During holiday celebrations, food can often lead to not only food poisoning but also various digestive system disorders, especially if difficult-to-digest or incompatible foods are overconsumed. To avoid such issues, the Ministry of Health recommends:

• Limit fried and fatty dishes: Prefer meals that are boiled, steamed, or baked.
• Reduce sugar intake: Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to obesity and disrupt gut microbiota. Avoid pastries, cream desserts, candies, juices, and carbonated beverages as much as possible.
• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Choose foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates.
• Eat in moderation: Food should be consumed in small amounts and with breaks. Do not attempt to try every dish available at the table. The more diverse the food consumed at one time, the greater the burden on the digestive system, which may struggle to process everything.
• Maintain a regular eating schedule: Aim for 4-5 meals throughout the day. This is especially important for children, as their fragile bodies are more sensitive to changes in diet and routine.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Do not overindulge. It is important to know that vinegar, mushrooms, and citrus fruits are incompatible with alcohol,” the statement noted.