It is really hard to remember to eat healthy during the holidays, isn’t it? For one, we’re so busy with shopping, cleaning, cooking, wrapping, etc., and if we are visiting friends and family there is usually so many treats around that we just can’t resist! However, unless we want a serious post-holiday health hangover (along with some extra pounds) it is a good idea to keep everything in moderation, which means that you need to keep some healthy holiday snacks handy for when you need them. Here are a few ideas for healthy snacks:
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Dried Fruits and Nuts (or trail mix):
Keep a resealable bag with a good mix of healthy nuts and dried fruit.
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Fresh Fruit:
Apples are a great traveling fruit - you can throw one in your purse or car and have it as a quick snack.
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Fresh Veggies:
It's easy to find baby carrots and celery sticks in ready to eat portion-sized bags.
There’s more than one reason to eat healthy around the holidays, and the most important reason has nothing to do with your waistline. When you eat well, you feel well, and around the holiday season it will be much more enjoyable if your body is in top condition. Additionally, if you improve your snacking habits you will have more energy, which you will certainly need. All that driving, shopping, wrapping, and entertaining requires a ton of effort, and if you are giving your body the optimum fuel it will repay you. While it can be tempting to reach for those quick pick me ups like sugary drinks and chocolate, you are much better going for something that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, which will provide you with longer lasting energy, and no crash. It’s a good idea to make snacks easy to access, so you don’t grab the first non-healthy snack you find. Put a bowl of fruit on your table, and keep some snacks in your bag, backpack or car for when you are out. Remember that the better you eat, the better you will feel, and the more fun you can have over the holidays. In case you are in need of inspiration, here is a fast and easy healthy snack recipe to keep on hand in the fridge.
Healthy Garlic Hummus
Goes great with fresh veggies, and is an excellent appetizer for holiday entertaining! 1 15 ounce can chickpeas, drained (set aside juice in case needed) 4-6 cloves garlic 1/3 cup tahini 1/4 cup lemon juice 3 tbsp water 1 tsp paprika 3/4 tsp garlic salt Blend ingredients in a food processor until desired consistency reached (some people like smooth, others like a bit more texture). If the mixture is too thick, add a bit more water or the juice from the canned peas.
