Adapted from The USDA’s “Make Healthier Holiday Choices”

The holidays are filled with time-honored traditions and foods that we look forward to all year. Small changes can help make the holidays healthier and more active as you celebrate.

• Simple substitutions - make healthy substitutions to still enjoy the holiday spirit. Substitute heavy cream for low-fat milk in a casserole, try hummus and whole grain crackers as an appetizer, and add a salad into your holiday spread.
• Make your protein lean - turkey, roast beef, fresh ham, beans, and fish are lean protein choices perfect for the holiday. Trim away fat before cooking and go easy on sauces and gravies.
• Be the life of the party - laugh, mingle, dance, and play games. These social traditions are critical to our emotional wellbeing.
• Choose water - quench your thirst with water infused with lemon or lime slices for a tasty and hydrating compliment to your meal.
• Make exercise part of the fun - plan a leisurely walk after dinner with friends and family to digest your food and share stories.

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