Top 10 Tips to Make Your Holidays Healthier

Jenny Even, RD, LD

Extension Educator, FCS/EFNEP

1. Snack smart:  before you go out to eat or to a party, snack on fresh fruits or vegetables.

2.  Skim the fat:  try skim evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.  Works well in baking or hot drinks!

3.  Tweak the sweets:  instead of pumpkin or pecan pie, try fresh fruit with fat-free Greek yogurt.

4.  Go easy on the gravy:  enjoy a little bit – it goes a long way.

5.  Spice it up:  use spices and herbs instead of salt and sugar to season foods.

6.  Bake healthier:  use pureed fruits in recipes – such as apple sauce – instead of butter or oil.

7.  Brighten your plate: fill half with colorful fruits and vegetables.

8.  Avoid portion distortion:  enjoy your favorite holiday foods, but in small amounts.

9.  Cheers to good health:  drink water flavored with citrus fruits, fresh cucumber slices, or herbs vs. soda, wine and mixed drinks.

10.  Move more:  enjoy the beauty of the season – take a walk in nature or visit a local park.

Source:  USDA MyPlate Holiday Makeover.

To download the PDF of our 10 tips for holiday click here.