You CAN have Your Christmas Cookies and Eat Them Too!

Dec 10

The holiday season is a magical time, filled with warmth, laughter, and of course, an abundance of delicious food! From festive feasts to platters of cookies, it’s easy to feel like your usual healthy eating habits go right out the window. But what if I told you it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing situation? This year, try to embrace the joy of holiday eating while still nurturing your body.

The key isn't deprivation; it's balance and mindfulness.

Make Room for Tradition and Comfort

One of the most wonderful things about the holidays is the food traditions that bring families and friends together. That special casserole grandma makes every year, the gingerbread cookies you decorate with your kids, or the rich hot chocolate by the fire – these aren't just calories; they're memories, comfort, and joy.

These foods serve an important purpose beyond just nutrition. They lift our spirits, connect us to our heritage, and create moments of togetherness. Trying to strictly avoid them can lead to feelings of deprivation and ultimately, overeating later on.

Embrace them! Enjoy these special treats without guilt. Savor each bite, appreciating the flavor and the moments they create. The goal isn't perfection, but presence.

The Unsung Heroes of Your Plate

While we're making space for those beloved holiday indulgences, let's not forget our everyday nutrition foundations: fruits and vegetables. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, helping us feel energized, supporting our immune system (especially important during busy holiday seasons!), and keeping our digestion happy.

The good news? The holidays offer a fantastic array of seasonal produce that can be both delicious and festive. Think vibrant cranberries, crisp apples, juicy pomegranates, roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and hearty winter greens.

How to Sneak Them In:

Start with produce: Before diving into the richer dishes, fill your plate with a generous serving of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Creative additions: Add spinach to your morning smoothie, dice apples into your oatmeal, or snack on clementine oranges.
Festive sides: Offer a beautiful fruit platter alongside the dessert table, or make a colorful veggie tray with a low-fat dip.
Roasts and stews: Load up your holiday roasts and comforting stews with plenty of root vegetables.

Supplementation: Consider a high-quality fish oil supplement. I am not talking any fish oil you can find at Costco. You specifically want one that lists the quantity of EPA and DHA on the bottle and has over 1,000mg of total omega 3s per serving. Always discuss supplementation with a professional, especially if you are taking other medications like blood thinners that can have an interaction with omega 3s.

Finding Balance

Balance looks different for everyone, and it can even change day by day. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the holiday food landscape:

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Sometimes we mistake thirst for hunger.
Mindful Eating: Pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly, without distractions, and truly taste your food.
Prioritize Protein & Fiber: At meals, focus on getting adequate protein and fiber from sources like lean meats and whole grains. This helps you feel fuller and more satisfied.
Don't "Save Up": Avoid skipping meals to "save" calories for a big holiday dinner. This often leads to extreme hunger and overeating.
Move Your Body: Even a short walk can do wonders for your mood and digestion. Enjoy winter activities with loved ones.
Allow for Indulgence: If there's a particular treat you truly love, have a reasonable portion and enjoy every bit. Don't let one cookie derail your whole day.
Plan Ahead: If you know you're attending a party with lots of rich food, plan to have lighter, nutrient-dense meals earlier in the day.

The holidays are about connection, joy, and creating beautiful memories. Food plays a huge role in that, and it should be enjoyed, not feared. By practicing mindfulness, prioritizing nutrient-rich foods, and allowing space for those beloved seasonal treats, you can truly savor the season without feeling like you've completely abandoned your healthy habits.

Happy Holidays and happy eating!