Can I have a bit more please?

Fancy a bit of extra crackling on Xmas Day? Here are 10 ways you can stuff your face and convince yourself you'll stay healthy while you're doing it.

'Forget the turkey sandwiches, let's finish it now.'

Eating turkey could reduce your risk of prostate disease. It's a good source of zinc (100g contains about half your daily requirement), a mineral with an important role in maintaining normal prostate size.

'I don't care if sprouts make me fart, I want another spoonful'.

An extra portion might help reduce your risk of heart disease. Sprouts are a good source of folic acid, a vitamin that controls the blood level of a artery-damaging amino acid called homocysteine.

'I just can't stop eating the chestnut stuffing.'

Chestnuts are good for your eyes. They contain vitamin E which can help protect you against cataracts, according to UK, Canadian and Finnish research.

'I'd like some more cranberry sauce, please.'

It could help keep your urine flowing nicely. Cranberries help prevent infection-causing bacteria sticking to the urinary tract.

'Another helping of Christmas pudding won't hurt.'

In fact, it might help your haemorrhoids - it's packed with dried fruit and full of fibre.

'Another beer would help wash it all down.'

There's some evidence that alcohol can reduce the risk of ulcers. German research suggests that the more you drink, the less likely you are to be infected with an unpleasant bacteria (known as H. pylori) that causes stomach and duodenal ulcers.

'Pass the Brazil nuts.'

They're good for your sperm. Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium, a mineral which helps sperm swim correctly.

'Yes, I'd love a chocolate.'

It could help you get on better with the family. Chocolate boosts feel-good chemicals in the brain and contains stimulants (caffeine and theobromine) which should help keep you awake throughout the afternoon.

'Are there any figs left?'

Herbalists believe figs have an alkalising effect on the body, helping to counteract the acidic foods that dominate western diets. Excess acidity can increase the risk of colds, breathing problems and even kidney disease.

'I'm completely stuffed but I don't care.'

Some psychologists believe that feeling guilty about what you eat is bad for your health whereas enjoying what you eat can boost a sense of wellbeing that increases immunity and lowers stress levels.

If you do decide you've gone too far, however, take a look at malehealth.co.uk's Healthy Living Centre to find out more about how you can feel better in the New Year.