Today’s Five Fast Fitness Facts - Planning a healthier holiday menu!

Today’s Five Fast Fitness Facts

By: Dr. Davia H. Shepherd – Chiropractor and Clinical Nutritionist

Planning a healthier holiday menu!

The holidays are fast approaching and may pose a challenge to sticking to a healthy lifestyle plan. Here’s the good news: the holidays can be enjoyable without giving up on healthy food choices!  Here are just a few tips to a healthier holiday menu!

1.       Sweet potatoes! Instead of making the white variety this holiday, go for the sweet potato. See our previous post about the health benefits of sweet potatoes!

2.       Make your own stuffing!  This may sound like a chore but it can be fun and healthy. Try using wild or brown rice with scallions, thyme and rosemary or spices that you favor! Explore healthy recipes for inspiration!

3.       Make your salad a focal point!
      Lots of attention will be paid to the protein dish you choose and the salad and vegetables sometimes become a second thought and a last minute throw together. This holiday, go all out with your salad, research salad recipes. Play with nuts, seeds, fruits and beans to make your salad shine!                                                                                       

4.       Pumpkin side dishes! Pumpkins are in season and make many tasty side dishes! Give the pumpkin a place of prominence on your holiday table! Its good for you and yummy too!

5.       Nuts, seeds peas and beans! Snacking before and after the main meal doesn’t have to be a diet buster. Crudités with dip made from ground lentils or other beans can be satisfying and delicious. Put out an assortment of nuts and seeds, mix nuts and dark chocolate, use your imagination!

And remember, even though it’s the holidays, stay hydrated: Drink 64 oz of water daily, keep sodium (salt) intake to a minimum!

The holidays are about being thankful and for sharing time with friends and family. Run a race for a good cause or get out and volunteer to make someone’s holiday brighter! In helping others you will do something great for yourself too!

Happy holidays to you and your family!

Special conditions such as diabetes hypertension and other health conditions require special diet recommendations. Before starting any weight loss program, please consult your health care provider.  Learn more about healthy weight loss! Set realistic goals; get information on meal plans with appropriate caloric intake guidelines. Call Dr. Shepherd today at 860- 589-1491 to schedule your appointment.