Carnival – drink enough water, watch your eats on the streets

By Cherice Bronte-Tinkew

Carnival is in the air. What does nutrition have to do with Carnival vibes and the yummy street foods? Well, I would like to highlight two topics in this nutrition column: hydration, and food safety. These two topics can easily be overlooked in the mas and excitement of the season.

In December, I would have contributed a column on drinking alcohol, but did you know it can act as a diuretic? Alcohol can make one become dehydrated especially when consumed in copious amounts (more than 4 to 5 standard drinks in a single occasion according to the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention).

Signs of dehydration include fatigue, dizziness, lack of concentration, headaches, and muscle cramps. Beyond these signs, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to impaired judgement and harm caused to oneself or other persons around.

Rehydration can be started with drinking water. You cannot find a better drink than water. It makes up approximately 70 per cent of the human body and helps the body in many ways.

It is found in blood cells and skin cells. It helps to transport nutrients around the body, it lubricates joints, and it helps to protect our vital organs such as the brain and kidneys.

Generally, the recommendation is 8 to 10 cups per day, but it can vary especially in a sunny and hot environment and signs of dehydration. Drinking water helps to flush waste and toxins through the kidneys too.

If you are stuck in drinking enough water for the day here are a few helpful tips.

1. Measure your current intake then set a goal.
2. Carry a re-usable water bottle. Pick your favourite colour or customise to help remind you to drink more.
3. Set alarms to remind yourself to drink water every hour. Practice makes perfect.
4. Try changing the flavour with a squeeze of orange juice or lemon juice.

It is important to have clean, safe drinkable water, too.

This takes me to my second topic, food safety around Carnival time. Street foods are extremely popular and it’s a part of our culture. Occasional treats such as bake and shark, doubles, cup of channa or corn soup can be enjoyed but take a few minutes to observe where you buy these items.

Nobody wants this

Food poisoning can be caused by eating and drinking contaminated foods. Signs of food poisoning include vomiting, upset stomach, weakness, diarrhoea, and severe dehydration.

Here are a few checks to keep in mind:

1. Check to see if the persons are up to date with food badges.
2. Do they have gloves or appropriate utensils for serving?
3. Is the area where food is prepared and served clean and free of pests?
4. Are hot foods served hot and are cold foods served cold?
5. Ensure the person is not handling money and serving food with the same hand.

If in doubt, don’t buy.

There is always the option to bring your own snacks and beverages. Try carrying dry snacks such as nuts, roasted channa, dried fruits, and seasoned crackers. They can be carried in resealable bags or containers. It also prevents low blood sugar and feeling of fatigue or tiredness.

Lastly, don’t forget to wash your hands before and after having meals. If you can’t get to a sink with soap immediately, sanitise your hands instead.

Cherice Bronte-Tinkew is a registered dietitian. She is a member of the Board of Nutritionists and Dietitians and the owner of a private online nutrition practice, JustCher Nutrition.

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@JustCherNutrition.

Email- justchernutri@gmail.com