What Are Superfoods & Why Should You Eat Them?
AUG 30, 2023No food has super powers, but some are considered to be superfoods. These are foods that offer incredible health benefits for their nutritional profile.
Read MoreThe holidays are a time to celebrate the reason for the season with loved ones. You do not have to wrap-up the holiday season with uncontrolled blood sugars and not feeling your best. Overstuffing on high-calorie appetizers and beverages can make the remainder of your meal and celebration less enjoyable. Consider these ideas for choosing delicious and nutritious meal starters and drink options.
While enjoying meal starters, avoid standing near the table of food as this can lead to excess grazing. If you have the option to use a smaller appetizer plate, this can help with portion control. Also make sure you are drinking plenty of sugar-free fluids to help keep you satisfied and hydrated.
Holiday food itself is already delicious – avoid breaking the calorie bank with beverages!
Consider making non-alcoholic versions of favorite holiday beverages. Using sugar-containing punch, juice, regular soda, lemonade, and egg nog can make blood glucose and weight management difficult. Instead, utilize diet soda, seltzer water, unsweetened tea or coffee, or light juices which contain lesser-to-no calories and carbohydrates.
If you choose to drink alcohol, be sure to control the types and amounts consumed. A serving of champagne, dry white or red wine contains less carbohydrates and calories than dessert wines. If you enjoy beer, consider choosing a light version. While unsweetened vodka, rum, whiskey, tequila, and gin contain no carbohydrates, they are high in calories which may make weight management difficult. In addition, using sugar-containing mixers makes management even more challenging – instead consider using diet tonic water, diet soda, or light juice. Practicing moderation is also important – this is considered limiting to two or less drinks per day for men and one or less drink per day for women. One drink equals 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, and 1.5 ounces of hard liquor. Avoid drinking alcohol with an empty stomach, especially if you have diabetes as this increases your risk of a low blood sugar. Speak with your medical provider to make sure alcohol is appropriate for you to drink.
Relax and enjoy spending time with loved ones during the holidays! Making balanced appetizer and beverage choices can be delicious and will keep you feeling your best during this time of celebration.
Want more healthy holiday tips? Get ideas for your main course and desserts too!
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