Eat Healthy This Thanksgiving!
It can be difficult to be health conscious, especially during the hectic holiday season. The 70 percent of people who prepare food for their guests during the holidays are leading the trend toward simple and healthy entertaining options that allow the host to enjoy the party alongside family and friends, while still being health conscious.
When it comes to food, Americans want it “tastier, easier and quicker” according to “What America Eats,” an annual survey from PARADE magazine of the nation’s food and eating patterns. Quick-cook appetizers like Cheddar harvest fondue or no-cook options like a cheese board accompanied by whole grain bread, fall fruits and nuts, are delicious, easy and nutrient-rich options that provide key vitamins and minerals that Americans are lacking. Research shows that eating three servings of low-fat dairy foods a day can help reduce your risk for high blood pressure, osteoporosis and certain cancers.
Why is it important to serve nutritious foods?
Research shows the average Thanksgiving feast and all the trimmings contain as much as 3000 calories with 225 grams of fat. That’s a day-and-a-half worth of calories all at one sitting, which can quickly add unwanted pounds. Even when we’re not celebrating the holidays, most Americans consume too many foods that are high in calories, but low in nutrients.
One way to lighten holiday fare is to focus on serving nutrient-rich choices from the food groups people need most. These food groups are low-fat and fat-free dairy products, fruits, lean meats, vegetables and whole grains. This is according to the government’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which calls these groups “Food Groups to Encourage” because they provide key nutrients that most Americans are lacking.
Do people have to sacrifice good taste to be healthy during the holidays?
Many appetizers use light Cheddar cheese and skim milk as the main ingredients, which give the sauce a rich taste without the fat or high calories. More importantly, dairy provides nine essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, protein and potassium.
Cheese varies in fat content just like milk. You can find flavorful reduced-fat cheeses such as Cabot Cheese®, Laughing Cow® and Kraft® in the dairy case.
The American Dietetic Association notes that all foods can fit in a healthful diet; balance and moderation is the key. The good news is, if you are watching your weight, you can still enjoy cheese.
What suggestions do you have for people who hesitate to prepare party foods from scratch or raw ingredients?
With a little planning and practice, anyone can be the perfect party host. Stock your pantry and refrigerator now with ingredients for impromptu winter get-togethers like tailgating, holiday parties and more.
Can you offer any additional tips that party hosts can do to eliminate the stress of holiday entertaining?
- Keep yourself organized with a timeline.
- Always shop with a list to make sure you get exactly what you need.
- Set your table the night before the party.
- Prepare dishes that you can freeze ahead of time to eliminate last-minute chores.
- Expect the unexpected guest – make extras.
This holiday enjoy celebrating as much as your guests. Make entertaining easier with appetizers made with nutrient-rich dairy foods. Try some of the following:
Butternut Squash, Cranberry and Cabot Habanero Cheddar Wontons
