Also try to eliminate the use of table salt. Dry fruits served during the holiday season may contain sodium sulfite as a preservative. Cured meat such as ham may have sodium nitrite, in addition to being high is salt content. Smoked salmon, which is popular in the Northwest, also has high sodium content. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol.
Alcohol is unavoidable in holiday gatherings.
While in moderation alcohol has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks, excessive consumption is addictive and may be associated with a multitude of problems in the liver, heart, stomach, brain etc. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is not easy, especially during the holiday season, when temptation abounds everywhere we go. But holiday feasts do not have to be unhealthy. Learn to read labels of prepared foods. Avoid foods high in sugar, salt, and fat.