It’s easy to overindulge during the holidays, what with all the cakes, cookies, bacon, candy, turkey and potatoes, not to mention all the wine, cocktails and beer. After all this, however, you can feel sluggish and gross from all the food and the lack of exercise. This can make you feel pretty down, especially during the dark days of post-Christmas winter. Here are some foods and drinks you need to try to keep your health in tip-top condition during winter!
Spiced tea
Tea is the solution to everything, as we all know, and spiced tea, such as chai, cinnamon, ginger or peppermint will give you a taste of the season as well as all the benefits you get from tea. By taking a moment to drink tea you will get a little pick-me-up; a moment to yourself. If you don’t add any sugar, it’s also calorie-free!
Pumpkin puree
Is it even the autumn/winter season if you don’t put pumpkin in everything!? It is the ultimate cozy taste that will be delicious added to oatmeal, smoothies or yogurt. Of course, the artificial flavoring is full of sugar and not a whole lot of the actual pumpkin, so for a healthier take use real pumpkin puree and mix it with ginger cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This will also offer you vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants so you can feel good while you enjoy.
Shrimp cocktail
You might not think of this as particularly healthy, especially as it is served at so many holiday parties, but actual it is packed with lean protein, low calories and full of essential minerals! You can feel as though you are indulging without any of the guilt! Festive and healthy with equal measures!
Sparkling water
For something a little different than plain still water, enjoy a sparkling water with a twist of lemon in a cocktail glass to feel super festive. You can also enjoy it with other fruits such as raspberry, or cranberry for a beautiful blush drink that won’t make you feel sick in the morning. If you are going to have alcohol, try to alternate between a glass of that and some sparkling water to keep hydrated.
Vegetable soup
Soup is the perfect lunch during the winter season. You can make it in advance, so it is always on hand, and enjoy with a big hunk of bread for a delicious snack. Take to work for reheating, or as an evening snack. You will be getting so many vegetables in one dish; it will almost counteract the amazing amount of pigs in blankets that you ate over the festive period.
Mini candy canes
If you want a festive treat without going overboard, keep some mini candy canes around. They will take the edge off your sugar cravings without making you feel too full or guilty. They are not something you can eat too quickly either so you can enjoy them for a while. Plus they are super cute and festive!
Christmas is a time for treating yourself, but not to the detriment of your health and well being. Balance it all out with some of these healthier alternatives and have a guilt-free winter!
