Naughty or Nice – Maybe a Little of Both?

‘Tis the season for parties, and food is the common ingredient no matter what the celebration.  And these aren’t just any foods – often these treats are only made at this time of year and they’re prepared from old family recipes passed down from generation to generation.  The smells and tastes evoke happy memories from years past.  So it’s no wonder most people aren’t interested in talking about healthy eating and nutrition goals.  In other words – ‘tis also the season when most people try to avoid registered dietitians.We understand that many view dietitians as the food police – talking about calories, fat, sugar & cholesterol, always pushing more fruits & vegetables.  You feel like all dietitians want to do is spoil your celebrations and food memories.  Believe it or not, even though we’re dietitians, we understand how you feel.So instead of playing the role of ‘grinchy’ dietitians and offering our usual fare of holiday recipe rehabs and warnings about the risk of weight gain, we’re taking this opportunity to let you know dietitians really don’t want to spoil your celebrations & memories. Here’s a review of some popular holiday treats that have some nice things for your body even though you feel naughty when you indulge:Buckeyes (the candy, not the seed): Peanut butter is a good source of protein and heart-healthy, monounsaturated fat.  Dark chocolate provides antioxidants, which get rid of free radicals, destructive molecules that play a role in heart disease and other ailments such as cancer.  Some studies report that dark chocolate lowers blood pressure.Cheese Log: Cheese is high in protein and is a good source of calcium, a mineral that plays an important role in bone formation & heart health.  Roll it in some nuts for added protein and monounsaturated fat!Cranberry Sauce: This popular side dish is fat free.  Cranberries are high in antioxidants and contain proanthocyanidins (PACs).  PACs are related to the prevention of UTIs and may also block the bacteria responsible for stomach ulcers.Eggnog: A serving of this popular holiday beverage contains 10 grams of protein, a third of your daily calcium needs with a shot of several B vitamins, vitamins that play an important role in the energy-producing process.  Low fat varieties are available, too.Green Bean Casserole: This popular casserole provides a serving of vegetables and that has to be a good thing. Peppermint Stick Ice Cream: This seasonal choice contains protein and calcium.  Peppermint is a popular supplement used to treat anything from heartburn to stomach aches, headaches and colds.Pumpkin or Sweet Potato Pie: The pumpkin and sweet potatoes in these desserts are high in vitamin A and C, along with calcium and potassium, minerals that play important roles in bone & heart health.  They also add fiber to the mix.Spiced Nuts: These tasty treats are a good source of protein and they are loaded with fiber and heart-healthy mono- & polyunsaturated fats.  Many nuts are high in vitamin E (may promote healthy aging) and folate (helps reduce the risk of birth defects).  They also contain magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc, minerals necessary for bone formation, enzyme reactions, & vitamin absorption; play role in blood sugar control and improved immunity.  Cholesterol-free is another positive.And remember that if you over-indulge during the holidays or if you’d like some help with any of your nutrition concerns give us a call at Sound Bites Nutrition..