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It’s now that time of year. The holidays are here that are traditionally a time to eat and enjoy lots of food, some of which isn’t the best for those on a heart disease diet plan. Foods that are only prepared once a year and bring back memories of past holidays full of good food, family and friends, are plentiful at this time of year. By doing a little wise choosing, you can survive the holidays, staying happy and healthy throughout this special season.
First, don’t think of this as a frustrating time of deprivation when you can’t enjoy your favorite foods. The gravy laden stuffing, the pumpkin pies, the desserts loaded with whipped cream and calories are definitely not the heart-healthiest of foods, but you don’t have to say no to everything delicious. There are a few tricks you can use to still enjoy the pleasures of holiday food without impairing all your hard work at sticking to a heart-patient diet plan.
There are plenty of healthy foods during the holidays. Turkey is lean and a wonderful source of high-quality protein. Salads are plentiful and you can generally choose what you put in them when eating away from home. Pick dark leafy vegetables, bright sweet peppers, heart-healthy onion, and nuts full of beneficial fatty acids for a topping. Let the cheese and heavy dressings go, pick an olive oil based dressing full of luscious herbs for delicious taste. Savor your salad and eat plenty so you won’t be empty stomached when you pick your main course items.
If you are doing the cooking, look for low-fat, artery healthy recipes. There are plenty to choose from, as cardiovascular health is driving a new way of eating and cooking. Use herbs rather than salt for seasoning, use plenty of heart-healthy garlic; it has so many benefits to arteries and the heart.
Things to avoid are artery clogging sauces and gravies. Full of fats, salt and empty calories, these are the biggest holiday culprits that can set back all your healthy eating. Take a little of everything though, even the “bad” stuff, just a bite or two won’t hurt.
Don’t overload your plate. Putting away an enormous holiday dinner can stress the heart as over half the body’s blood supply is drawn to the digestive system while it attempts to digest the massive quantities of food. Just take a little bit of everything but emphasize fresh vegetables and lean meats.
And then there are the desserts! Split one with a family member or friend. The frustration of feeling like you are being deprived of a traditional pleasure may actually do your heart more harm than a half of a piece of pie. A little won’t hurt but two pieces of pumpkin pie smothered in artificial whipped cream may be a really bad choice!
Go easy on yourself and your friends and family. This isn’t the time to settle old scores, hold old family grudges, or impose a suffering attitude because of dietary restrictions. A simple smile, a positive attitude, and making a few healthier choices when it comes to choosing foods that are actually healing will see you safely through the season.
To Your Heart’s Health!
Monique Hawkikns
540-858-2885 anytime
Skype: Monique371
