If you’re looking to celebrate the Holidays with food in a way that you won’t pay for later, there are some simple changes you can make. Here are a few Holiday food swaps that will help you maintain your goals.
Watch your Booze Intake
It might not be the most popular advice for Holiday celebrations; however, it’s one of the most effective ways to decrease the number of calories you consume. If drinks are a large part of the social atmosphere of your event, try providing mocktails for your guests. It’s an opportunity to use your creativity and still serve delicious beverages to your guests.
Rethink Appetizers
Switch out some of your fried, less healthy appetizers for something fresh. Samantha Leffler, a writer for eatthis.com interviewed Natalie Rizzo, MD, RD. The article states, “Instead of fried appetizers, Rizzo advises serving or reaching for some shrimp cocktail. “There’s nothing like a good potato puff, but the calories in those little fried finger foods can add up quickly,” she explains. “Holiday guests are inclined to nosh before a meal, so why not serve shrimp cocktail instead. This appetizer puts the protein-rich seafood on display and is served with a spicy cocktail sauce.”
Serve a Lot of Veggies
A great Holiday meal is all about the amazing side dishes. Change things up this year by making the majority of your side dishes vegetables. Grill, broil, bake and boil your favorite veggies to add some beautiful color and variety to your table.
Sweet Potatoes
The health benefits of eating sweet potatoes vs. russet are immense! Sweet potatoes are lower on the glycemic index which means they won’t spike your blood sugar with such intensity. Additionally, they’re known to promote gut health and support your immune system as well. You won’t regret serving sweet potatoes with your Holiday meals!
Other Alternatives
If none of the above tips are speaking to you, here are a few other ideas to help you make some healthy Holiday food swaps.
Dip- Instead of indulging in heavy dips, consider swapping them out for various flavors of hummus. This delicious food is not only high in protein, it’s better for you! Try both sweet and savory hummus to round out your options.
Sweets- The Holidays have no shortage of sweet treats for you to partake in. However, instead of overdoing it on the desserts, have a selection of fruits available to eat. Dates are an excellent swap. They’re sweet and nutritious. Try some frozen grapes, and other seasonal fruit to complete your sweet spread.
Noodles- If noodles are a staple in your Holiday food lineup, try making zoodles instead. Zoodles can be easily made by spiralizing zucchini. They have machines that make this process fast and easy. It’s a healthy, light swap that won’t weigh you down too quickly.
Small, simple changes can make a huge difference in how you feel after your meal. Try these Holiday food swaps this year and see what you think!
