Kim Kirchherr, MS, RD, LDN, CDE

Holidays and food go hand in hand.  Celebrate traditions sensibly with a few simple steps this year – all foods can fit!  Here’s some of my favorite ways to make sense of the food fest.

Enjoy traditions.  We all have favorite dishes that have been in the family for generations.  If it is a dish that is made once a year for a special dinner, it’s ok to enjoy it made as it was handed down through the years.  If it’s a dish that is made more often, try changing out a couple ingredients such as lighter versions of milk or cheese, whole wheat flour, or oil instead of butter.  See how it turns out – and try it before the actual party meal so you feel confident and not stressed about the outcome with the exchange of ingredients.

Keep health on the menu.  With a little label reading and thought to meals surrounding the holiday parties, you can still maintain/achieve health goals and keep weight on track through the bustle of the season.  Be sure to alter snacks to maintain balance and use non-party meals wisely.  For example, if the party is going to be low on fruits and veggies, enjoy a snack of your favorites.  If at home, share a baked acorn squash with someone for a mid-afternoon treat, or if headed to work, pack an apple or pear and some fat free Greek yogurt to dip the fruit in.  Veggies are a great crisp snack to enjoy, too.  Steam them, make a salad with salsa as a smart and sassy dressing, or roast a variety of them on the weekend and pack them cold to munch on during the day.

Exercise!  Moving helps burn extra calories and manage stress.  It’s also a great way to enjoy those last crisp days before winter weather moves in.  Take a walk before or after the meal, or play catch with the kids in the family.  Too cold?  Head to the store to walk or do some extra cleaning before the guests arrive.  Take a look at what classes are offered, if that is appealing, too!  Whatever activity sounds fun and/or fits into the schedule easily – that’s the one to do.

Start new traditions.  Enjoy the typical holiday festivities, but look for ways to make new habits part of the celebration moving forward.  From walking as a family before dessert to building a snowman on the first snowfall to serving roasted veggies with holiday dips – find fun ways to take care of the family and yourself no matter what time of year!