December is a very busy month that can be filled with all sorts of celebrations. The amount of parties, family functions and festivities can feel overwhelming; it seems to be inevitable that we will indulge in all the tempting goods surrounding us this time of year. However, the festivities can still be enjoyable and healthy at the same time! Here are some tips to help you have a healthy and happy winter season:

1. Don’t skip meals: Skipping meals with the goal of saving extra calories prior to celebrations and events could even backfire and lead to overeating at the event. Instead of depriving your body of the fuel it needs, consume your meals as you usually would and have filling snacks such as fruit, nuts or yogurt to help prevent being so hungry when you get at the event, it is difficult to make sensible selections.
2. Think color: Make your plate look festive to match your festive spirit. Aim to diversify your meals by adding fruits and veggies with a pop of color!
3. It’s about the people, not the food: Remember that this time of year is about being around the people you love and care about, whoever that may be. The food is just an extra bonus!
4. Think before you drink: The winter season brings about a list of drinks that make us feel warm and cozy but contribute a large amount of sugar. So, try to stick to water, sugar free seltzers and warm teas; enjoy just a serving or two of the special beverages.
5. Eat until you are satisfied but not stuffed: With the many food options we may be faced with, it’s tempting to try a bit of everything until we feel stuffed! Think back to all the times this happened before; it isn’t a pleasant feeling. So, check with your hunger and fullness cues as you eat and practice mindful eating; maybe look over at the buffet and choose the things that you really want to try.
6. Contribute to healthy meals: You can be the one who presents a healthy dish at putlocks and dinners. This way you have a healthy dish to consume, while encouraging others to choose it too! The dish does not have to be boring, spice it up with seasonal ingredients like pomegranate and persimmon!
7. Most importantly, don’t feel guilty: This time of the year is filled with happiness and thankfulness. Don’t beat yourself up if you overindulge; rather, savor this special meal and just plan for  the next meal to be more balanced!

Seasonal Foods and Recipes

Balsamic Cranberry Roast Chicken

What better way to get your protein and antioxidants in than with this yummy cranberry roast chicken! It’s seasonal, healthy and delicious!

Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham

Take the traditional route this year with a citrus twist. Not only do you get a delicious meal, but you can use the leftovers of this spicy orange honey baked ham for some tasty sandwiches!

Sweet Potato Bites

A simple yet delightful and healthy dessert to satisfy your cravings. These sweet potato bites are packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber and will have you coming back for seconds!

Roasted Pear, Sweet Potato, and Radicchio Salad

Add this hearty salad to your next get together! This roasted veggie pear salad will be the star meal of the night.