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Staying Healthy During the Holidays

The common connection between food, holidays and loved ones brings up the internal struggle of wanting to participate in the celebration by enjoying in the food that creates so many fond memories with loved ones versus the feeling of guilt for over indulging.  

Here are some strategies to help you enjoy time with friends and family but in moderation:

CONSIDER HELAHTY ALTERNATIVES

  • Try removing the skin from the turkey to cut out part of the fat
  • If you are looking for a healthy snack or appetizers think veggie tray

 

THINK ABOUT YOUR PRE-PARTY MEAL

  • Fill up with some fiber from veggies or a lean protein to avoid all the temptations
  • This will help you avoid making bad choices on the spot

 

STAY HYDRATED

  • Always have a glass of water in hand to avoid temptations
  • Sometimes our mind confuses hunger with thirst so before reaching for something to eat…drink some water

 

USE A SMALLER PLATE

  • Having a smaller plate will make portion control easier
  • Fill your plate first with veggies and good protein to fill you up and curb your appetite

 

TRY YOUR BEST TO AVOID ALCOHOL

  • Alcohol cripples your will power and will also add excess calories to your diet
  • Set a limit and stick to it

 

BEAT STRESS OR BOREDOM WITH HOBBIES OR HEALTHY HABITS

  • Holidays can be chaotic and some of us turn to food for comfort so if you tend to binge or overeat under stress make a list of your favorite activities to do
  • Write out a goal to keep during the holidays and hang it up to look at for motivation

By incorporating these tips at your holiday gatherings, it will ensure you are starting off the New Year without adding those dreaded holiday pounds.  To satisfy your holiday cookie cravings try this recipe for “Buff Gingerbread Men.” 

BUFF GINGERBREAD MEN RECIPE

Makes 48 mini cookies: 72 calories each

  • ½ c butter, softened            
  • ½ c unsweetened applesauce
  • ¾ c packed brown sugar        
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp cinnamon                    
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
  • ½ tsp salt                            
  • large egg + 2 large egg whites
  • ¾ c molasses                        
  • 3 ½ c whole wheat flour

 

Mix butter, egg, egg whites, molasses, and applesauce until blended.  Add sugar, baking soda, spices, and salt.  Slowly add in the flour.  Cover and refrigerate dough for 2 hours.  Preheat oven to 350°F.  Remove and roll out dough to ¼” thick.  Use a 2” to 4” gingerbread cookie cutter to make shapes.  Re-roll scraps of dough as necessary.  Bake for 12 minutes.  

We challenge you to try this recipe and stick to making healthier choices this holiday season! 

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