Healthy Holiday…Keeping it in Balance

By Jerry Sabo

Let the Holidays Begin

The Holidays are here again! But wait, are you on a diet, overweight, and about to go to a holiday party or have one yourself? There are all these tempting morsels-and now you have to try to keep on a healthy track. Don’t put on blinders, but limit or plan what you are to eat. Below is a list a few things to do during the holidays to keep it all in balance.

Appetizers

• Choose appetizers that follow the food guide pyramid, like whole wheat crackers, a slice of cheese, vegetable morsels, & some fruit slices.
• Fill up on fiber
• Limit high fat sources, cheese sauce, fried chicken wings, etc.
• Contrast texture/flavors/variety

Healthy Holiday Cheer

• Cocktails & mixed drinks may be served at a holiday party
• Alternatives to cocktails:

- Sparkling apple juice or apple cider

- Seltzer mixed with fruit juices

- Flavored, calorie-free water

- Low sodium vegetable juice

• Tip: Festive ice cubes can add flavor & color. Freeze berries, cherries, lemon/orange slices, and a spring of mint in ice trays. Fill with water, fruit juice, or sparkling beverage, and freeze as usual

Keeping It All in Balance

· Get plenty of rest

· Limit/avoid alcohol

· Exercise-look for ways to incorporate daily physical activity during the holidays

· Stock your kitchen with healthy snacks.

· Select from a variety of healthy foods that are low in fat and high in fiber

Have a safe and merry holiday...Hope you all have been good for Santa!!!