Finding Balance: Nourishing Choices for a Healthier Holiday Season
The holiday season always brings such a wonderful mix of joy, family, and, of course, delicious food. But I know how easy it is to get carried away with indulgence (and let’s be honest, it happens to all of us). So, this year, I’m looking for ways to keep things balanced – enjoying the holiday flavors we all love without feeling like I’ve overdone it. Here’s my approach to a healthier, more nourishing holiday season – I hope it sparks some ideas for you too!
Start with a Fresh, Colorful Appetizer Board
I love a festive board filled with colorful veggies, seasonal fruits, a few artisan cheeses, nuts, and olives. Not only does it look beautiful on the table, but it also feels satisfying without filling you up too much before the main meal. Plus, it’s a great way to set a healthier tone right from the start.
Revamp Those Holiday Side Dishes
While holiday meals tend to include buttery potatoes or sugary yams, there’s a way to make sides both delicious and nutritious. Think roasted Brussels sprouts with a touch of cranberry, maple-glazed carrots, or a savory cauliflower mash. These seasonal veggies offer all the festive flavors and warmth of the holidays, with a little less indulgence.
Find Balance with Sweet Treats
Yes, it’s the season for sweets! Instead of overloading on desserts, I’ll be mixing in some naturally sweetened options. Baked pears with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a fresh berry compote topped with a bit of Greek yogurt can be a lovely finish to a meal. It’s all about having those traditional treats in moderation while adding a few lighter options.
Choose Festive Low-Sugar Drinks
Sugary cocktails are tempting, but for a festive drink that doesn’t spike blood sugar, try sparkling water with pomegranate seeds or a splash of cranberry juice. If you’re a wine lover, a glass of dry red wine can be a nice choice – just enough to enjoy without going overboard.
Fill Up on Protein
I find that adding a good source of protein to my holiday meals helps keep me feeling satisfied and balanced. Dishes like herb-crusted salmon or a lean cut of roasted turkey breast can be a wonderful complement to carb-heavy sides, and they don’t leave you feeling overly full.
Mindfully Enjoy Every Bite
One of the best parts of the holidays is enjoying the foods we love. I try to indulge mindfully, really savoring each bite and enjoying every flavor. Listening to my body’s signals lets me indulge without feeling like I’ve overdone it, which I actually never do anyway because I am a very moderate eater.
Move a Little, Laugh a Lot
And finally, staying active – in simple ways! After a big meal, a light walk outside or even just some games with family can be refreshing and help with digestion. It’s a fun way to keep things moving without any extra effort.
This season, let’s celebrate with balance, enjoying those comforting holiday dishes and treating ourselves well. Here’s to a festive season filled with good food, laughter, and a little extra nourishment.