A New Vision of Holiday Eating

Indulging over the holidays can do more than stretch your waistline. The risk of having a heart attack may be increased after eating a large meal high in fat and calories. The good news is that you can enjoy the holidays in a healthy way.

Get Creative
Try these simple recipe changes from the American Heart Association (AHA) to reduce fat and calories while keeping the flavor:

  • Change one ingredient at a time so that you know which changes you like best
  • Use egg substitutes or egg whites (two whites per one whole egg)
  • Use less sugar than called for in pie recipes; cut back the sugar to one-fourth the amount listed and add the sweetener sucralose, which can be successfully used in baking
  • Use low-fat dairy products
  • When a baking recipe calls for oil or butter, try a fruit puree, such as applesauce, instead

Party Planner
At holiday parties, you don’t always have control over the types of foods available. Make the best of your choices and cut back on portions:

  • Avoid alcohol
  • Eat a healthy meal before the party so that you don’t overindulge
  • If you must have some chocolate, try dark chocolate-dipped strawberries instead of chocolate truffles; the strawberries have about half the calories and are filled with antioxidants, but try to remember not to overindulge even though strawberries are good for you
  • If you’re having pie, don’t eat all the crust, unless it’s made from crushed graham crackers
  • Sample the fresh fruit platter
  • Take only a sliver of your favorite desserts

When you bring a dish to share, keep in mind that the guests may also be watching their eating habits. Offer healthy alternatives to feel good about what you’re serving.

Find healthy recipes.

For More Information
To learn more about Sharp's nutrition services or to find a Sharp-affiliated physician, search for San Diego doctors or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. To find general information about nutrition, read the Nutrition News archive.