Give Yourself The Gift of Nutritious Feast with These Healthy Christmas Recipes

We’re in the midst of the undo-a-button-on-your-pants season. A festive time when healthy meals are forgotten and the average person is expected to gain 7 pounds. True story! A recent survey concludes that 61% of Americans feel they deserve to indulge because of the 2020 stress.

Heck, I don’t blame us. I have been savoring every Oreo lick and dunk since January.

But it’s time to take a step back and gather healthy meal ideas for the holidays. Or we could invest in The Sensory Deprivator 5000 (How I Met Your Mother, anyone?) and avoid the temptation when we go grocery shopping.

Now, I’m not a one-size-fits-all type of person. I know we all have unique physiological needs, but at the very least, let’s consider healthy ingredients this festive season. The key here is not to obsess or restrict ourselves as this might add to the holiday stress. But rather adopt Jodelle Fitzwater’s philosophy and “Eat the food that loves you back.”

Dig into the following healthy foods for a comfortable balance and happy waistline.

The Gift of Nutritious Feast

The holiday is upon us, but surely this doesn’t mean our taste buds need a vacation. Well, definitely not mine. If you are anything like me, you wouldn’t hesitate to take your taste buds on a journey with mouth-watering healthy Christmas recipes.

My favorites in a collection I discovered on Good Housekeeping are the Pressure Cooker Winter Squash and Lentil Stew (because I’m a sucker for Instant Pot meals), and the Lemony Asparagus, Beans, and Peas. But there is something for everyone!

Find the recipes here

Healthy and Fun Snacks for Kids

Let us not forget the little humans. If they inherited your sweet tooth, you know they would indulge in cookies and chocolates all day if they could. But they might find an attempt at making “fun-food” a novelty and even be more willing to eat the treats. I mean, come on! How precious are Santa Fruit Skewers and Watermelon Christmas Trees? The good news is that your kiddos can indulge while you can be the parent that provides healthy Christmas treats. It’s a win-win situation.

Click here for fun ideas

Expand Your Palette

For most people, holiday celebrations include alcoholic beverages or drinks that are made with unhealthy ingredients. As for me, my lips don’t touch alcohol and I prefer wholesome refreshments that nourish my body and mind. That’s just me. I’m not here to tell you to quit drinking. But I’m here to show you some healthier and cozy holiday drink recipes to consider while you celebrate the festive season.

Find the recipes here

But if you are keen to purge your alcohol habit, co-founder James Swanwick helps people quit. Maybe a soon-to-be new you in the new year? Check it out!

Healthy Foods for Quality Sleep

Sleep is crucial for our health and wellbeing. What most people don’t realize is that our habits before bed, which includes what we eat and drink, can impact the quality of our sleep. 

With all the holiday craze, it might be tempting to skimp on sleep. But don’t fall for the old sayings: “You snooze, you lose” and “You can sleep when you’re dead.” Quality sleep not only helps us stay physically healthy and improve our cognitive function but also makes us happier and naturally increases energy. Check out the best foods and drinks below that promote better sleep.

Find the foods here

Read this article to discover how you can make bedtime a breeze.

Healthy Holiday Dessert Swaps

Ah yes, I saved the best for last. Healthy Christmas desserts here we come!!

Okay, I’m swooning over the healthy treats at Cooking Light. With these delicious options, one wouldn’t even know they are healthier. The goal is to switch out the artificial junk with healthy ingredients and still retain the irresistible flavors. Somebody pinch me! If that didn’t convince you, the photographs sure will.

Find the recipes here

Maintaining a healthy balance is not a piece of cake, but it can be if you use healthy ingredients. Let’s embrace the small decisions toward a healthy lifestyle, shall we?