Millions of Brits are set to cut down on calories in preparation to gorge themselves over the Easter season.
Even if coronavirus restrictions mean they’ll be stuck at home, unable to see friends and family in the flesh, many are looking to give themselves a health MOT before the Easter Eggs come out.
But celebrity nutritionist Dr Simone Laubscher has warned that skipping meals and denying yourself suitable sustenance could lead to serious problems on the roads.
That’s because it can cause low moods and a lack of focus behind the wheel, cutting reaction times and impairing judgement.
Dr Laubscher, who works with Hollywood A-listers including Elle Macpherson, said:
“Low calorie diets can result in low blood sugar levels and not enough blood glucose being available for the brain to function at an optimum level.
"It’s really important to avoid skipping breakfast, even if you are in a hurry, as this can lead to low blood sugar and therefore affect your driving decisions. I would recommend opting for a banana or other piece of fruit, plus one to two handfuls of nuts. You could also whiz up a protein smoothie to ensure your brain has a good glucose supply.
“For a short drive, simple carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables married with protein and good fats such as nuts, hummus or avocado are great to sustain concentration levels.
“If it’s a long drive you will need a more substantial balanced meal. Opt for fish, rice, olive or coconut oil and vegetables, or a wrap with hummus, avocado and salad.
“The good fats are vital for brain function and to stop blood sugar lows, which could have devastating consequences if you are behind the wheel.”
The warning comes after Brits once again embraced takeaways and sweet treats to get themselves through the third national lockdown, which is set to end on March 8.
There are warnings that the strict regulations – which prevent households from mixing and has seen pubs and restaurants close their doors – are set to continue over the Spring and Easter period to ensure cases of the virus do not spike again.
Motoring expert Mark Tongue, director of Select Car Leasing, welcomed Dr Laubscher’s advice, saying: “It’s never wise to drive when you’re hungry. Your reaction times will be far slower which could lead to dangerous consequences.
“Eating a balanced diet also improves mood, so you’ll be a more relaxed driver and be far less likely to experience road rage – which can only be a good thing for everyone.”
Dr Laubscher, co-founder and managing director of Rejuv Wellness which has clinics in London and Dubai, also recommended viewing the human body like a high-performance vehicle to get the message across.
She said: “Your body is way more advanced than the most expensive Formula One car on the planet.
“Such cars have engineers tweaking their engines and fuel mix to perfection to get peak performance.
“Therefore, you need to give your mind and body the respect they deserve by choosing nourishment over dieting.
“Most people service their cars once or twice a year, but they never take time to service their own engines by doing a detox or cleanse every six to 12 months.
“This doesn’t require a major investment, just a little time and access to free information that is out there.”
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