It’s Monday and you’re still feeling bloated. Ugh. You’re wondering, ‘what did I eat?’ Ah … now it’s coming back to you. All of those plates full of alluring appetizers and sumptuous snacks during your weekend of merriment and holiday party hopping.
Oh how fun it was to go back for seconds. And thirds. But now having to loosen your belt another notch isn’t helping your stomach – or your mood.
According to a recent survey, nearly 40% of Americans worry about how much they eat during the holidays. And if fretting about it wasn’t bad enough, fearing how easy it is to pack on 10 pounds or more from Thanksgiving until New Year’s Eve makes the holidays seem even more daunting.
But what can you do when it’s that most wonderful time of the year to enjoy a sleigh-full of deep fried delectables, ooey gooey cheese balls and decadent desserts? How can you pass up all of the yummy Yule time goodies? Healthier options, that’s how.
Here are 5 delicious and healthy holiday treats made with fruits, vegetables and nuts to take to a party or serve at your own:
Roasted pears – Bursting with Vitamin C and antioxidants, pears also contain 15% of your daily requirement of copper, which affects your ability to learn and remember. Now you won’t forget anyone on your shopping list.
Marinated olives – Besides being yummy to munch on, olives contain hydroxytyrosol – a potent phytonutrient – that has been linked to cancer prevention and helping maintain bone strength.
Artichoke hearts – Packed with potassium, these little gems help maintain healthy blood pressure, lower bad cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. Perfect to help counteract holiday stress.
Spicy pistachios – Loaded with carotenes, Vitamin E and polyphenolic antioxidants, these tasty treats help remove free radicals and protect the body from disease, cancer and infections.
Apricot canapés – The powerful punch of Vitamin A in apricots helps protect your vision by hindering free radical damage that can injure your eyes.
Try these recipes, or come up with some of your own. Enjoying these in moderation will help you jingle – instead of jiggle – your way through the holiday season.
Related Article
Join the Discussion
0 Comments