8 Tips for Healthy Holiday Eating
Discover the joy of healthy holiday eating with our guide! Learn how to use natural fats, nutrient-rich meats, and wholesome carbs to create festive meals that nourish your body. Get tips on incorporating bone broth, organ meats, and dairy into your diet, plus advice on balanced meals and mindful alcohol choices. Elevate your holiday feasting with our special sourdough pie crust recipe. Celebrate the season deliciously and healthily!
12/19/20233 min read
Healthy Holiday Eating: Savor the Festive Season Without Compromising Your Wellness
Embrace Healthy Fats in Your Festive Cooking
Bid farewell to unhealthy fats and welcome the goodness of natural options in your holiday cooking. Swap out Crisco and hydrogenated oils for grass-fed butter, tallow, or lard, and reap the benefits of saturated fats for hormone health. Dive into why these fats are preferable to high-PUFA oils and discover how they contribute to your well-being, even in delicious holiday treats.
Savor Nutritious Meats in Your Celebrations
Transform your festive roasts from mere tradition to a healthful delight. By choosing gelatinous cuts of turkey, beef, or lamb, you're not only enjoying a delicious meal but also enriching your diet with valuable collagen. Go beyond the norm with locally sourced, pastured animal products for maximum nutrient density. Get tips on using leftovers creatively and making the most of every part of your holiday feast.
Get Creative with Bone Broth
Bone broth isn't just a health trend; it's a culinary secret weapon. Learn how to incorporate this nutrient-dense liquid into various holiday dishes, from rice and potatoes to soups and stews. Discover the benefits of adding powdered collagen and gelatin to your favorite holiday beverages like hot chocolate and homemade eggnog. Find inspiration for protein-rich snacks like homemade marshmallows or gummies, made simple with gelatin.
Balance Your Diet with Wholesome Carbs
Carbs are not your enemy, especially during the holidays. Instead of overindulging in cookies and cakes, choose nourishing, mineral-rich carbs that are in season. Get ideas for incorporating stewed fruits like apples, prunes, and oranges into your diet. Learn how to prepare winter favorites like squash or pumpkin, adding spices and healthy fats for a satisfying and nutritious dish. Explore other seasonal options like carrots, potatoes, and beets, and understand their role in hormone balance.
Incorporate Organ Meats for Nutrient Density
Organ meats might be the unsung heroes of nutrient density. Discover how to incorporate them into your holiday diet with simple, tasty recipes like homemade chicken liver pâté. Find out why liver is an indispensable source of vitamins and minerals, and get tips on enjoying it even if you're not a fan of the taste. Learn about convenient supplement alternatives that provide similar nutritional benefits.
Why Dairy Can Be a Healthy Choice
Rethink dairy during the cold months. From raw milk drinks to nourishing hot chocolate, dairy can be a comforting and healthy addition to your winter diet. Understand the importance of vitamins A, D, and bioavailable calcium in dairy products, and get inspired to pair raw cheeses with healthy carbs for satisfying, nutrient-rich meals.
Smart Eating Strategies for Holiday Wellness
Discover strategies for enjoying holiday meals without compromising your health. Learn how to balance your plate with sufficient protein, fats, and carbs to avoid stress and overeating. Get practical tips on maintaining a steady intake of nourishing foods throughout the day, even when anticipating a big holiday party. Understand why this approach helps keep your blood sugar stable and prevents binge eating.
Navigating Alcohol Consumption During the Holidays
Addressing the common questions about alcohol during the festive season, learn how to make healthier choices if you choose to drink. Explore options for organic and regeneratively grown wines and understand the importance of quality in hard alcohols. Discover the trick of pairing fructose with alcohol to mitigate its effects and make informed decisions that align with your wellness goals.
Bonus: Sourdough Pie Crust Recipe
As a special treat, here’s an extended look at making a delicious sourdough pie crust perfect for your holiday baking. Delve into the benefits of using organic flour and grass-fed butter, and learn the art of incorporating sourdough discard into your pastry for a unique flavor and texture. Follow step-by-step instructions for preparing and chilling the dough, ensuring a perfect crust every time.
2 – 2 1/2 cups organic flour
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup cold, grass-fed butter, cubed
1 cup sourdough starter discard
Cut cold butter into the flour/salt. Mix in sourdough discard. Roll into a ball and cover. Keep in the refrigerator 2 hours or up to 2 days to allow fermentation. When ready, roll out and line your pie pan. Bake as directed according to your recipe 🙂