Holiday tables can feel complicated this year. Maybe you're navigating new food sensitivities. Maybe your appetite isn't what it used to be. Maybe you're just tired of thinking about what goes into your body. We get it. Mindful eating isn't about perfection; it's about finding what works for you, right now, in this moment.
Finding Balance at Holiday Meals
Creating balance during holiday celebrations doesn't mean denying yourself the foods you love. Simple strategies can help you enjoy the season while supporting your health:
Building Your Plate:
- Fill half your plate with vegetables
- Add lean proteins and whole grains
- Include small portions of traditional holiday favorites
Staying Hydrated:
- Drink water throughout the celebration to support your urinary system
- Alternate alcoholic beverages with water, as alcohol can irritate your bladder
- Proper hydration helps you distinguish between true hunger and thirst
Once you have these foundational strategies in place, you might want to bring a dish or two that you know will work for you. Whether you're managing treatment side effects or simply want options you feel good about, having a few go-to recipes can take the pressure off. Here are three of our favorites: festive, flavorful, and designed with your well-being in mind.
Healthy Holiday Recipes to Try
Bringing nutritious dishes to holiday gatherings ensures you'll have healthy options to enjoy. These three recipes offer festive flavors while providing essential nutrients.
Healthy Stuffing Balls
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan and sauté one large chopped onion, two chopped celery sticks, and two chopped garlic cloves for 15 minutes
- Preheat oven to 425°F
- In a food processor, combine the cooked vegetables with 15g chopped dried apricots, 75g peeled chestnuts, 75g almonds, 100g torn wholemeal bread, chopped parsley, dried sage, and a pinch of salt.
- Pulse until chopped, add one egg, and pulse until combined
- Roll into walnut-sized balls with wet hands
- Bake 25-30 minutes until golden
Autumn Glow Salad with Lemon Dressing
- Cook 1 cup freekeh or other grain according to package directions
- Roast one head of cauliflower florets and two chopped sweet potatoes with one tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs at 425°F for 30-35 minutes
- Make dressing: shake together 1 cup minced parsley, one minced garlic clove, 2/3 cup olive oil, juice of 1 lemon, one teaspoon agave, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper
- Chop one large apple
- Toss everything together, warm or cooled
Vegan Green Bean Casserole
- Boil 1 pound green beans in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain and place in an ice water bath.
- Sauté 1 minced shallot and two minced garlic cloves in 2 tablespoons vegan butter for 2-3 minutes
- Add 1 cup chopped mushrooms and cook 3-4 minutes
- Sprinkle two tablespoons of flour and whisk to coat
- Slowly add 3/4 cup vegetable broth, then 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- Simmer 5-7 minutes until thick
- Mix in 1/2 cup crispy fried onions and all green beans
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of fried onions
- Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes
Enjoying the Season Without Guilt
The holidays should be a time of joy, not stress about food choices. Remember that one indulgent meal won't derail your health goals. By practicing mindful eating and incorporating nutrient-rich recipes into your celebrations, you can enjoy the season while supporting your wellness. The team at Astera Cancer Care is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about supporting your wellness year-round.