Food Marathon Strategies

Another holiday feast is coming up this week. Thanksgiving and Christmas are particularly close together, often leading to a marathon of food that can challenge even the most disciplined eaters. The proximity of Thanksgiving and Christmas presents a wonderful opportunity to blend flavors and dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. This can be done without losing much traction on our diets if we keep the processed junk, vegetable oils, refined sugars and flours at a minimum. OK, this might be easier said than done with pies, treats, tasty beverages, etc — all vying for our attention.

During the holiday season, most of us have multiple opportunities to indulge. There are holiday parties, sweet, sugary treats, and the main event meal. While it's easy to be tempted by the abundance of hearty, rich foods, incorporating healthier options doesn't mean sacrificing the joy of holiday dining. For instance, using fresh, organically raised, all-natural herbs, veggies, fruits, and spices can elevate the taste of dishes while maintaining respect for health and nutrition. Avoid overly processed ingredients. Roasted vegetables, whole grains, and grass-fed, pasture-raised proteins can take center stage on your plate, offering a delicious savory balance to the plethora of decadent, sweet options available.

Enjoying the flavors of the season is all about finding harmony between indulgence and nourishment. Seasonal produce like squash, cranberries, and pomegranates can add vibrant colors and robust flavors to your meals. Experimenting with recipes that emphasize these ingredients can create memorable dishes that feel festive yet light. If you need some inspiration, visit our Discover Wellness Blog. Salads with roasted beets and goat cheese, or quinoa-stuffed acorn squash, can provide the richness of holiday cuisine while keeping health in mind. By thoughtfully balancing your choices, you can savor the tradition and warmth of holiday feasts without feeling overwhelmed by excess. A good rule of thumb is to consider the colors of the table (or your plate). If the food is all of a similar color theme, you might want to go back to your culinary palette for some additional color. This approach allows you to celebrate fully while maintaining a sense of well-being and mindfulness about your holiday dietary choices.

Finally, don't forget the exercise! If you have a routine, even if it's a brisk walk in the neighborhood, stick to it. If there's some indulgences, you'll need to keep the metabolism up to accommodate. Exercise can also help keep the mind in the right place too.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from your friends here at US Wellness Meats!

All the Best,  Team USWM