Holiday Eats
The holidays – the most wonderful (and difficult) time of the year!
No matter how hard you may try, you will find yourself surrounded by sweets and treats. Whether you are walking through the mall, at work or visiting with family and friends – temptation seems to present itself quite frequently this time of year.
I am writing this blog in hopes that it helps you through the Holidays. With a little planning and mindfulness, you can enjoy your favorite treats in moderation and continue to lead a healthy lifestyle through the next few weeks!
Here are some tips and tricks for this Holiday Season:
- Never go to a party feeling hungry. Have a healthy protein-rich snack before heading out. Grab a handful of nuts, yogurt or hummus and veggies. This will help you avoid overeating at the party.
- Contribute a healthy dish to the gathering. This way you know there will be a healthy option you can enjoy. Encourage your close friends and family to contribute a healthy dish as well. In the past, I have proposed to my friends that they try and make a healthier, more delicious dish than mine – Whatever works, right?!
- Choose the healthy options first. This is especially important if you are at a potluck or cocktail style party. Fill up on the nutritious dishes as this will help avoid overindulging in the calorie-dense foods.
- Don’t graze your way through the party. Avoid standing near tables filled with high-fat appetizers and sugar-filled treats. This way you are not tempted to grab a handful of chips or chocolate every few seconds.
- Be mindful of portion size. Choose a smaller plate at meal time. Research has shown that people tend to over-serve on larger plates which results in over-consumption. Also, don’t forget to fill at least half of your plate with vegetables!
- Avoid drinking your calories. Alcoholic and sugary beverages deliver calories without nutrition. Between every alcoholic or sugary beverage, drink a glass of water or better yet, enjoy some sparkling water with fresh lemon throughout the night. Try making my favourite festive drink – recipe below.
- Enjoy your Holidays. Enjoy the festive foods you love in reasonable portions and pass on the others.
Emily’s Festive Drink
Not only is this drink refreshing, but it also incorporates the perfect colours for the Holiday Season!
Serves: 7
Ingredients:
- 6 cups carbonated water
- 2 cups frozen raspberries
- 2 lemons, 1 juiced and 1 sliced for garnish
- 6 sprigs fresh mint
Directions
- Combine carbonated water, raspberries and lemon juice of one lemon in a small pitcher and refrigerate for an hour.
- Serve over ice with one sprig of mint and one slice of lemon per glass.
This refreshing, flavorful, low calorie drink is a party pleaser! The raspberry and lemon-infused drink provides vitamins and minerals that are essential to a healthy diet. Raspberries are high in antioxidants which may help lower your risk of disease and signs of aging, making this drink a #1 choice.
Don’t wait until January to get started with a healthy lifestyle – NOW is the time! I wish all of you a wonderful Holiday Season.
– E
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