Although not often thought of as the most nutritious
Mandarin oranges – loaded with flu-fighting vitamin C and hydrating juiciness.
Pomegranates – like ruby red jewels, these in-season nutrient-rich seeds add tang and star quality to everything from salads and roasts to desserts and drinks.
Cranberries – Mother Nature’s medicine. Enjoy light cranberry sauce as a garnish or serve alcohol-free cranberry spritzers.
Walnuts – full of healthy fats. Toast and shell whole walnuts to keep portions wiser.
Pecans – right up there with walnuts. Toast and enjoy in salads or crumbled on roasted vegetables.
Turkey – lean, top quality protein. Dark meat is slightly higher in fat than white but a better source of iron. Enjoy both.
Stuffing – it doesn’t have to be just a sponge for turkey drippings. Make it from whole grain bread or ancient grains for a delicious way to eat fibre. Add fresh herbs, raisins or olives.
Dark chocolate – Keep portions to an ounce or two and benefit from the antioxidant nutrients without overdoing the saturated fat.
Cinnamon – Enjoy this healthy spice on lattes, hot chocolate, roasted pears or warm applesauce.
Like all year, plan to take a moderate approach with the rich treats, but why not make this holiday season the one you focus on what you should eat, as opposed to what you shouldn’t? With this as a goal, there will be less deprivation, less desire to overdo it, far more nourishment and just as much fun.
From our family to yours, best wishes for a wonderful Christmas season!
By Patricia Chuey, RD and Foodtritionist. Reach her @patriciachuey on Twitter or patriciachuey.com.
