{"id":7971,"date":"2019-11-20T09:33:27","date_gmt":"2019-11-20T16:33:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com\/fitness\/?p=7971"},"modified":"2019-11-20T09:33:29","modified_gmt":"2019-11-20T16:33:29","slug":"healthy-holiday-treats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com\/health-and-fitness\/news\/healthy-holiday-treats\/","title":{"rendered":"Healthy Holiday Treats"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

By Jamie Miller, Camelback Village\u2019s registered dietitian<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2018Tis the season for pumpkin-spiced goodies, peppermint-flavored desserts, and so many more holiday sweet treats. While an occasional dessert can be a part of a balanced lifestyle, enjoying these indulgent items all holiday season long can leave us not feeling our best come the new year. So how do we navigate all the upcoming family gatherings, holiday parties, and gift exchanges without overindulging? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip #1: Don\u2019t accept \u201cdefeat\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is no need to write off the entire holiday season as a time to feel less than your best. While this may not be the time of year to start a new diet plan, we also don\u2019t have to accept that we are doomed to gain weight over the next couple of months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip #2: Eat only the treats you LOVE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prioritize your indulgences! That may mean skipping a \u201cso-so\u201d cookie from a co-worker and waiting to have a slice of your absolute favorite pie made by a family member. Really savor the \u201csplurge\u201d with mindfulness, moderation, and no guilt. For example, plate your cookie and enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee instead of eating it quickly while passing through the kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip #3: Consider setting a \u201cquota\u201d for the week<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, you could intentionally decide to have four Christmas cookies throughout the week. This allows you to \u201cbudget\u201d when you want to \u201cspend\u201d your time to enjoy the treat and what you want to spend it on to make sure it\u2019s really worth it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip #4: Satisfy with smart swaps <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to partake in a sweet treat more often, try out some of these nutritious holiday dessert ideas that\u2019ll keep you off of Santa\u2019s naughty list!  These are totally crave-able and satisfying treats are delicious enough that you won\u2019t feel like you\u2019re \u201cmissing out,\u201d and they will also help you feel nourished, energized, and healthy throughout the holiday season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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50-Calorie Hot Cocoa<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n