The holiday season can mean eating more food that is unhealthy, but a registered dietician offered some ways to make holiday meals a little healthier. Hannaford registered dietician Ria Saunders said it starts having a positive outlook. “Instead of focusing on what we’re taking away, focus on what we’re […]
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The holiday season can mean eating more food that is unhealthy, but a registered dietician offered some ways to make holiday meals a little healthier.
Hannaford registered dietician Ria Saunders said it starts having a positive outlook.
“Instead of focusing on what we’re taking away, focus on what we’re adding in,” Saunders said.
She said to build a plate with naturally good-tasting food. That includes lean proteins, such as chicken or protein, and seasonal produce, such as beets, sweet potatoes and squash.
“Because those are so nutrition dense, they’re packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and you don’t have to do much to them to really bring out that flavor profile and make them taste delicious,” Saunders said.
Seasonal spices, including cinnamon, rosemary and nutmeg pack flavor without added calories. Saunders said to swap ingredients when you can.
“If we’re talking about a recipe that might incorporate sour cream, you could potentially use something like a nonfat yogurt, and that could boost the protein of the dish,” Saunders said.
Also, using Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with olive oil instead of traditional mayonnaise can make a meal more heart-healthy.
Saunders added that there is nothing wrong with cutting corners to relieve the stress of holiday cooking.
“I think oftentimes, semi-prepared foods get a bad rep as overly processed, but there are lots of great options in our grocery stores,” Saunders said.
Grocery stores offer precut and pre-seasoned vegetables that you can throw in the oven or chopped kits that can be tossed into a salad.
Saunders said these healthier options are tasty and fill you up faster.
“Everything in moderation and having balance,” Saunders said.
The American Heart Association offers healthier holiday recipes on its website.
