The holiday season is full of festive feasts and indulgent treats, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your health to savor the flavors of the season. With a little creativity and a focus on nutritious ingredients, you can celebrate the holidays in a way that nourishes both your body and your soul.
Here are some ways you can support your health this holiday season:
Nourishing nibbles
Start your holiday gatherings with a selection of nourishing nibbles. Instead of traditional chips and dip, consider serving a colorful array of vegetable sticks with hummus or yogurt-based dips. These options not only provide a satisfying crunch but also offer a boost of vitamins and fiber.
Sensational salads
Elevate your holiday menu with vibrant salads that are bursting with both color and flavor. Incorporate a mix of leafy greens, roasted vegetables and a variety of textures. Add nuts, seeds or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a satisfying crunch. A balsamic vinaigrette made with olive oil can bring it all together without compromising on taste.
Whole grains
Opt for whole grains to add substance to your holiday meals. Quinoa, brown rice and farro are excellent choices that provide fiber and essential nutrients. Incorporate these grains into stuffing and side dishes, or even serve them as a base for hearty grain bowls with roasted vegetables.
Sweet treats with a twist
There are ways to satisfy your sweet tooth with healthier dessert options. Try using whole wheat baking flour or sugar substitutes like monk fruit sweetener or stevia in your traditional recipes. You can also use applesauce in place of oil to lower the fat and calorie content of the recipe. The applesauce trick works well in quick breads and muffins.
Alternatively, a fruit salad or a baked apple with cinnamon can be a great way to complement or replace traditional desserts.
Mindful moderation
Mindful eating can be extremely beneficial during the holidays. While we’ve provided some healthier alternatives to traditional holiday dishes, sometimes you just can’t say no to grandma’s cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning.
There is nothing wrong with eating your favorite holiday foods. Prioritize protein and veggies on your plate. Savor the flavors, eat slowly and listen to your body’s cues. Start with small portions of everything, and go back for seconds if you feel you want more.
Get active
Incorporate physical activity into your holiday celebrations. Plan outdoor activities like a family hike, a friendly game of touch football or a post-meal stroll. Not only does this provide a fun way to bond with loved ones, but it also helps promote digestion and metabolism.
Making small, mindful changes to your holiday menu allows you to savor the joy of the season without compromising your commitment to your health. Plus, you can still enjoy traditional holiday recipes alongside healthier swaps.
Holidays are about coming together with loved ones and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Celebrate the holidays with delicious, nutrient-rich meals that leave you feeling good.
Kristen Carli, MS, RD is owner and registered dietitian nutritionist at Camelback Nutrition & Wellness. Reach her at camelbacknutritionwellness.com/contact.
