Creating a Healthy Holiday Table

Nov 25, 2019

We know...eating healthy during the holidays can be tough. Egg nog and stuffing and cookies.....oh, my!  It is possible, though, to enjoy the holidays while still enjoying your favorite flavors.

The best tip is to make half of your plate fruits and vegetables because they are loaded with fiber which can help keep you full. Here are some other tips:

• When it comes to sweets, portion control is key. For small treats like cookies or candies, pick one or two of your favorites to enjoy, and then don't go back for more. For larger desserts like cake or pie, split a piece with a friend! (Sitting away from the sweets table can also be helpful.)
• If you're headed to Grandma's house or the office potluck, bring a healthy side dish or appetizer.  Other guests may be happy you brought something healthy too!
• Skip outside for exercise, but don’t skip meals....you're more likely to overeat later because you're hungry! If you're planning a big dinner, for example, try eating smaller, balanced meals at breakfast and lunch.
• Save the calories for your food, not your drinks. Choose water and other calorie-free beverages instead of consuming calories from sugary drinks (these calories have no nutritional benefit).
• Try changing things up by swapping unhealthy ingredients for healthier ones. If you normally use sour cream in recipes, try plain Greek yogurt instead. Another great swap is using applesauce in place of butter or oil. No one will know the difference!
• Spice things up! Try using different combinations of herbs and spices in your dish to make it flavorful while cutting the salt.
• When it comes to breads, rice or pasta, opt for whole-grains that have more fiber to help keep you full. Be sure to check the labels to ensure that they are truly whole-grain.
• Make time to move. Start a new tradition for your holiday and, instead of heading to the couch after your meal, grab friends and family to go for a walk

And, another way to make your holidays merry and bright is to socialize with friends and family. Take time to unwind from the busy-ness of the season and give your mental health a boost. Make sure that holiday gatherings are less about what you are eating and more about who you are with!

Looking for some new ideas for your holiday meals or parties?  Give these recipes a try!

• Butternut Squash Soup
• Cauliflower Mash
• Cranberries and Sweet Potatoes
• Cranberry Upside Down Cake
• Eggnog Protein Bites
• Green Bean Casserole 
• Guacamole Deviled Eggs
• Lemon Green Beans with Parsley and Almonds
• Lightened Up Egg Nog
• Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes
• Pear and Pomegranate Salad
• Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes
• Roasted Winter Vegetables
• Trimmed Down Gingerbread

For more ideas to try this holiday season, visit our Recipe Center!