Holiday stress busting foods!
December is by far one of the most hectic months of the year. We're all planning, shopping, wrapping and partying more than usual. What you eat (or don't eat), can make a difference in your energy level over the holidays. Below are some simple tips to feel your best this season.Bite this:
- Citrus fruit. Oranges, tangerines, and Clementines are at their peak this time of year. Vitamin C boosts iron absorption and helps maintain a strong immune system.
- Bell peppers. This versatile veggie is great sauteed, grilled, or just sliced and eaten raw. The variety of colors adds a nice touch to an appetizer or meal. Like citrus fruit, they're high in vitamin C.
- Beans. This musical fruit is digested slowly, which helps maintain blood sugar. Stable blood sugar means sustainable energy to shop til you drop.
- Yogurt. Full of calcium, protein and probiotics, yogurt is one food you should incorporate into your dietary repertoire daily. Try Greek style yogurt for a tangy twist. It's higher in protein than traditional.
- Nuts. Grab a handful before your next party, or toss a canister in your car for in-between trips. Full of protein and healthy fat, it's a great snack to nosh.
Not that:
- Granola bars. We're not sure why they're considered a health foodÂ. Most are just refined sugar, chocolate chips and a sprinkling of oatmeal on top. Don't fool yourself. Grab an apple instead.
- Pretzels. We realize they're lighter than chips, but there's really nothing special about extruded sticks made of white flour and salt, is there?
- Vitamin water. It sounds healthy, right? But in essence, you're paying for a semi-flavored bottle of water with a liquid multi-vitamin snuck in. Eat your broccoli already!
- Cheese. We know they contain calcium and protein, but each cube packs 17 calories and 1.4 grams of fat, and we know you can't eat just one.
- Pate. This mixture of chopped meat, fat and liver in a spreadable paste form will set you back 130 calories per ounce (without crackers or bread). LIVER- 'nuff said.
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