The holidays are here and we all know what that means: food and lots of it! One of the best parts of the festive season is eating all of the treats that come along with a holiday dinner – whether its turkey, ham, or pumpkin pie, there is no shortage of great things to eat. Healthy eating might not be at the top of your mind during this time of year, but just because its the holiday season that doesnt mean you need to sacrifice your health and fitness. Weve put together a comprehensive guide to eating well during the holidays, so that you can stay fit and continue to meet your health goals!
So looking for some ways to slim down your holiday feast? Check out these healthy versions of all your favorites:
Stuffing
Who doesnt love stuffing? This hearty side is normally made with bread, onion, celery, and a wide variety of meat and vegetable combos. While it is super filling and tasty, it can also be a sneaky source of carbs and calories. Dont cut out the stuffing though! You can easily make it a healthier option by using oats to beef it up rather than more bread or just opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs and croutons instead.
Mashed Potatoes
Yum, heres another addictive side! Mashed potatoes can often be the highlight of a meal, but theyre also a very heavy choice. To make your potatoes more diet friendly, try mashing them with some Greek yogurt rather than mayonnaise or butter.
Sweet Potato Casserole
If youre like most people then you love this heavenly combo of sweet potatoes and marshmallows! You can easily make this meal lighter by simply cutting out the marshmallows. Dont worry, itll still be a super sweet and tasty side! Sweet potatoes on their own are amazing and great for you too.
Cranberry Sauce
Although this bad boy is the perfect way to add some sweetness to a savory holiday plate, this is largely because most cranberry sauces have a pretty high amount of sugar. Want to make a sweet sauce without overdosing on sugar? Try simmering some fresh cranberries with sugar and a little bit of water of low heat youll have a healthy, homemade cranberry sauce in no time.
Pumpkin Pie
There is no better way to finish off a great festive meal then with a slice of pumpkin pie and a dollop of whipped cream. So how you can clean this fantastic dessert up? Try making your pumpkin pie with coconut milk and opt for a whipped cream with a Greek yogurt base for an indulgent dessert that you wont have to feel guilty about!
So youve reworked your holiday favorites, but probably youre still looking for ways to get more nutrition out of your meal. Try throwing in these awesome autumn superfoods for a holiday health boost!
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts can make an absolutely delicious side when fried up with garlic, onion, and olive oil. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also come loaded with vitamin C. This nutrient can work to prevent effects of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines and can also protect you from catching seasonal colds.
Pumpkin Soup
Warm, hearty, and designed for cold weather, pumpkin soup is perfect for the holidays. Pumpkins are a great way to get your vitamin A fix, a powerful nutrient which can improve your eye health and also fight visible signs of aging.
Apples
Looking for something sweet to have for dessert, but want a lighter option? Try baked apples with cinnamon! Apples are great for you and come jam packed with all sorts of essential nutrients. Apples are known to whiten your teeth, detox your liver, prevent cataracts, and give your immune system a helping hand during one of the more vulnerable times of year.
Squash
Whether its spaghetti, acorn, or butternut (or any squash, really), the health benefits of these filling vegetables are unparalleled! Make these hearty veggies your source for vitamin C and calcium over the holidays you wont be disappointed. They will leave you feeling full and so much better about yourself!
Looking for more ways to reach your health and fitness goals? Contact us!
