Holidays have a bad rap when it comes to the fattening, unhealthy foods that generally accompany them, not to mention the extra boozing and grazing that occurs at many of the seasonal parties. But not all holiday foods can be blamed for packing on the pounds. Some elements of our traditional holiday feast even have "superfood" qualities.
Superfoods are plant-based foods that pack a nutritional punch, usually due to high levels of naturally occurring vitamins, phytochemicals and antioxidants. According to the American Diabetic Association, these elements can help prevent different forms of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, obesity, diverticulosis and cataracts, among other things.
Along with the inevitable mouth-watering pies, casseroles, cookies, and gravies this season, here are some ingredients you can feel good about:
Pumpkin: Pumpkin pie is a holiday tradition that also happens to be rich in nutritional value. Pumpkins are a great source of fiber, anti-oxidants, minerals, B-complex vitamins, and alpha- and beta-carotene which boosts the immune system and promotes eye health.
Sweet Potatoes: Hidden in casseroles, covered in marshmallows, or served creamy and mashed, sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamin A in the form of beta carotene, and also pack in vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.
Cranberries: This famous holiday condiment is a powerhouse of nutrition, with high levels of health promoting anti-oxidants, inflammation-reducing phytochemicals, and immune-boosting vitamin C.
Cinnamon: An essential spice for holiday cookies and baked goodies, cinnamon can spice up your health as well. Studies show that cinnamon can relieve arthritis pain and reduce the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.
Nutmeg: Often used as a complimentary flavor to cinnamon, nutmeg is another super spice that is known for calming the stomach, relieving joint pain, improving circulation and concentration, regulating anxiety, and promoting sleep. It also has been shown to have antibacterial properties for mouth health.
Nuts: People go nuts for nuts around the holidays in the form of pecan pie, warm chestnuts, and party snacks. And a small handful goes a long way, helping control weight and protect us from certain cancers, while also serving as a plant-based protein that's high in fiber and a good source of mono-unsaturated fats that protects heart health.
Brussel Sprouts: Although it has a reputation for scaring kids away, this veggie has a slew of health enhancing characteristics, including beta carotene and flavonoids that are especially protective against cancer. Brussel sprouts are also high in fiber, potassium, and calcium.
Chocolate: We tend to assume that anything sweet is bad for us, but dark chocolate – with 60 percent or more cocoa content – includes flavonoids for heart health, reduces blood clots and can sharpen mental health.
For all of your questions, call or contact John Alderson Agency today.
