Healthier Holidays

At BAPTIST HEALTH, we know the holidays are a special part of life in Arkansas. From Thanksgiving through Christmas and New Year’s, the season is filled with friends, family, and, of course, delicious foods.

Too often we lose control of our diets during this time of year and look back on the holidays with regret. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Check out our helpful tips and tools for having a happier – and healthier – holiday season.

Healthier Holiday Cooking – Whether you are throwing a holiday party or preparing the evening’s dinner, one of the best ways to keep off unwanted pounds is to cook healthier meals and snacks.

Check out these easy tips for preparing delicious holiday foods without sacrificing the taste!

1. Use low fat sour cream or yogurt in dips.
2. Use apple sauce or pumpkin puree as a substitute for margarine or butter in stuffing (reduce amount of water slightly).
3. Remove skin from meats either before you cook the meat, or before you eat it.
4. Try soy nuts, instead of regular nuts.
5. Top a cake with powdered sugar, cinnamon, or cocoa instead of frosting.
6. Use three tablespoons of cocoa powder for every ounce of unsweetened chocolate that is required in a recipe.
7. Chew sugarless gum while cooking to discourage sampling holiday food.

Activities for the Whole Family - Don’t just sit on the couch after those big holiday meals. Get the whole gang up and doing something fun together. Here are a few ideas for great activities that burn those extra holiday calories.

• Play a friendly game of adults vs. kids touch football (and put it on YouTube)
• Agree to walk three times around the mall before starting your shopping
• Walk a “victory lap” around the mall each time someone finds a great bargain
• Take the stairs whenever possible instead of using the elevators or escalators
• While watching TV, exercise the entire length of commercial breaks
• Take the whole family bowling

Healthy Holiday Recipes - Try these delicious alternatives to the more fattening holiday fare. You’ll be glad you did!

TANGY DIP

PARTY DRUMMETTES

PUMPKIN ICE CREAM PIE FILLING

Check out your Baptist Health site for more FREE recipes and health tips that will help you enjoy delicious, fun and healthful meals even if you are on the go.

How can I get more health information? Sign up for our Healthy Living E-newsletter, and we'll deliver great tips and health advice right into your inbox.

Need more help? Contact Us for a personal consultation.

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