Hi all!
We are officially in holiday mode, meaning increased stress in all areas of life- and food is no exception! Between holiday parties, gift giving (and receiving!), and overall busy-ness, food is everywhere. It can be tough to manage fitting in balanced family meals while keeping an eye on too many extra treats during this time, so I’ve got a few tried and true tips that should reduce stress and get your family to 2018 without holiday food fights.
- Plan ahead for hectic nights. Holiday time means later evenings. Between juggling work events, chorus practices, and extra shopping, dinners may take a backseat. Make sure to look ahead at your weekly schedule to plan for nights that dinner may need to be extra speedy. Things like Three-Bean Chili can be made in 15 minutes and stored in a slow cooker for busy nights. Look for one pot dishes that include a protein source, whole grains, and veggies, and you’ve got your bases covered!
- Manage extra treats at home. During the holidays, treats seem to be everywhere from the break room to the gym (seriously- my spin instructor gave out tiramisu at class this week!). For kids this is no exception. Because we want to celebrate without going to over the top, try to limit extra treats at home to one or two holiday favorites. Include some lighter treats that still feel special, like flavored popcorn or a holiday smoothie.
- Find non-food ways to connect. Getting tired of the onslaught of treats? Plan a few holiday events that focus on what’s really important- family and giving back. Volunteer your time to help needy families, let your kids help decorate the tree, or use the Macaroni Kids site for holiday inspiration!
- Strategize for parties. Holiday parties can be a time when kids run wild with food, so they require extra planning. First, allow your kids to have a balanced snack- think apples and peanut butter or fruit and yogurt- before a party so they don’t walk in starving (bonus: this works for adults too!). Second, have a game plan. Talk to your kids about the foods that they might choose at the party and encourage at least one healthy choice, such as veggies and dip. Make sure to also discuss how many treats is appropriate, too! Finally, bring a better for you dish or something that can be snacked on in moderation. While holidays are all about rich foods, lighter choices are always appreciated. Get your kids in on it by having them help make something simple, like this Pomegranate Pistachio Bark- I promise a little goes a long way!
- Enjoy. Most importantly, enjoy this special time of year with your family and friends and remember to savor each moment! For more tips and fast, fresh, and easy recipes, use Giant’s Savory Magazine or come see me for a consultation or store tour! I am happy to help simplify your holidays or even just provide recipe suggestions.
Emily Craft, RDN, CSP, LDN is an in-store nutritionist for Giant Food. Emily has her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Delaware and completed her Dietetic Internship through Sodexo in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Emily’s background is in pediatrics and weight management and she loves helping families come together to enjoy healthy, delicious meals. For more information, go to https://giantfood.com/live-well/health-and-wellness/nutritionists/.
