Doctors in the UAE are urging everyone to avoid eating too many sweets during the festive season.
Today, UAE expats celebrate both Halloween and Diwali, with children traditionally going door-to-door to collect large amounts of candy in a fun custom called ‘trick-or-treating.’
Medical experts also warn that traditional Indian sweets and snacks enjoyed during Diwali can cause problems like bloating, indigestion, acid reflux, and even gastritis.
With Halloween and Diwali celebrations in full swing, and Christmas just around the corner, it’s a busy time for festive treats.
Dr. Laith Taha Saleem Al Adaileh, a gastroenterology specialist at Burjeel Day Surgery Centre in Al Shahama, explained the importance of keeping a balance in our eating habits. He noted, “It’s common for children to experience a ‘sugar rush’ during Halloween because of all the sugar they consume.
Eating a lot of refined sugar can cause a quick rise in blood sugar levels, which may give them a temporary boost of energy, followed by a ‘crash’ when sugar levels return to normal.”
He added, “These ups and downs can affect mood, sleep, behavior, and focus. While enjoying festive foods occasionally is fine, moderation is key to reducing negative effects on children’s health.”
Digestive Problems After Celebrations
Healthcare professionals also pointed out that they often see more patients with digestive issues after festive seasons.
“While there may not be recent specific data for the UAE, the rise in digestive complaints after festivals is well-known, showing how rich foods can impact gut health,” Adaileh explained.
They mentioned that overindulging during the festivities can strain the digestive system, leading to issues like gastritis or acid reflux.
Dr. Ignatius Edwin D’souza, a pediatrician and chair of pediatrics at Thumbay University Hospital, said, “We often notice more patients visiting after festivals. Many complain of stomach aches and nausea due to overeating. After Diwali, pediatric clinics often see many children with issues related to eating too many sweets, which can result from rich foods and sudden changes in their eating patterns.”
This may also lead to weight gain and increase the risk of obesity-related health problems like type 2 diabetes.
“Unhealthy eating habits developed during this time can stick around, making it hard to return to a balanced diet. The emotional toll shouldn’t be ignored either, as feelings of guilt or anxiety about overeating can harm mental health and overall wellness,” D’souza added.
Stay Hydrated and Choose Ingredients Wisely
Doctors stress the importance of staying hydrated, as it helps the body flush out excess sugar and fat. Increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also support good digestion and ease discomfort, as fiber is crucial for regular bowel movements.
“To help restore the balance of good gut bacteria that can be disturbed by a diet high in sugar and fat, including probiotics from foods like yogurt is helpful. Returning to regular eating habits and avoiding excess sweets will significantly improve overall health.”
During special occasions, careful ingredient choices, serving smaller portions to children, and limiting dessert times can help prevent overindulging. “Choosing desserts made with dates, coconut, jaggery, and nuts can offer healthier alternatives to refined sugars and oils, promoting a more balanced way to enjoy festive treats,” D’souza suggested.
Dr. Mahadevan, an Ayurveda Practitioner at Wellth, added, “In the week after the celebrations, it’s good for people to return to healthy eating habits and consider home remedies like adding ginger, pepper, and cumin seeds to food to boost digestion. A cleansing method after a week can also help clear the digestive system.”
