Sarah Heckler
MS, RD, LDN, CISSN

The holiday season is synonymous with delicious desserts and sweet treats that tempt us at every turn. While it’s tempting to indulge in the festivities, it’s important to strike a balance between enjoying these seasonal delights and maintaining your health goals. Here are some simple tips to help you savor holiday desserts without derailing your wellness journey:

• Practice Moderation:
  • Enjoy small portions of your favorite desserts rather than indulging in large servings.
  • Use smaller plates to help control portion sizes.

• Choose Wisely:
  • Opt for desserts that are lower in added sugars and saturated fats.
  • Consider healthier alternatives, such as fruit-based desserts or desserts made with whole grains like a fruit salad or a baked apple, to satisfy your sweet tooth with natural sugars and added nutrients.

• Balance Your Plate:
  • Make sure your overall holiday meal is balanced with a mix of proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats. This can help offset the impact of the dessert on your overall nutritional intake.

• Stay Hydrated:
  • Drink water before and during your meal. Sometimes, our bodies mistake thirst for hunger, and staying hydrated can help you feel satisfied with smaller portions.

• Be Mindful of Ingredients:
  • Choose desserts made with high-quality ingredients, and be aware of hidden sugars and unhealthy fats.
  • Consider homemade desserts where you have control over the ingredients.

• Share and Enjoy Socially:
  • Share desserts with friends and family. This way, you can still enjoy the flavors without consuming an entire dessert by yourself.
  • Engage in conversation and savor each bite slowly, allowing yourself to fully enjoy the experience.

• Plan Ahead:
  • If you know you’ll be indulging in desserts during a holiday gathering, plan the rest of your meals to be more nutritious and lower in calories.

• Stay Active:
  • Incorporate physical activity into your holiday routine to help balance the extra calories consumed during festive gatherings.

• Listen to Your Body:
  • Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues. Stop eating when you’re satisfied rather than stuffed.

• Avoid Mindless Snacking:
  • Be mindful of mindless snacking on leftover desserts. If you have a sweet tooth, plan for a designated time to enjoy your dessert.

Remember, the key is moderation and balance. You can still enjoy holiday desserts while being mindful of your health goals.