For many Jamaicans, a favourite part of the yuletide season is to partake in the traditional fruit cake, ham and a refreshing glass of sorrel juice.

While this is the season for feasting and festivity, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet by limiting the level of salt and sugar intake.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recommended the reduction of salt consumption to five grams per day and sugar to less than ten per cent of total energy intake, to prevent non-communicable diseases.

Our Today has some healthy but tasty meal ideas that will put you on the right path as you celebrate the Yuletide season with family and friends.

Tossed Salad

With its red, green and orange ingredients, this tossed salad is a great way to ensure that you are having your fruits and vegetables during the holiday.

This dish requires little effort and consists of fresh lettuce, carrots, watermelon slices, purple onions and nuts.

Curried chickpeas

Chickpeas are a delicious legume which helps to control the blood sugar level in the body.

They have a buttery, nutty texture and are rich in protein and fibre. They can be a great addition to the dinner table this holiday.

Steamed callaloo

Many Jamaicans do not eat vegetables, which are an important part of the diet to provide essential nutrients. Callaloo is a popular Caribbean vegetable dish that is often paired with boiled food such as green bananas, yam, sweet potatoes, among others.

This dish can be a great addition to the dinner table because it is good source of iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin K.

This vegetable helps with digestion and prevents constipation. It is also lowers the risk of heart disease, controls the blood sugar level and prevents obesity.

Rotisserie chicken

Rotisserie chicken offers a lean source of protein for persons and is a low fat cooking method which is good for persons who are on a diet.

Protein is an essential part of the diet, which is good for building muscles, helps to repair and produce new cell, and provide energy.

Veggie rice

Gungo peas and rice has traditionally been a staple on the Jamaican dinner table at Christmas. However, vegetable rice or veggie rice can also be quick and healthy alternative this season.

In order to ensure that the maximum health benefit is received from this dish, brown rice is recommended because it is a good source of fibre and helps to reduce the risk of heart disease.