Healthy Snacks for Your Post-Holiday Indulgence

A group of people sitting around a table with food

Description automatically generated Credit: Nicole Michalouvia Pexels

Many people tend to over-indulge during the holidays — you know, eating cake for breakfast, drinking Bailey’s in coffee regardless of the time of day, and spending more time horizontal on the sofa than any other time of the year. While it’s a glorious season to relax and enjoy all of life’s pleasures (even during the challenging pandemic we continue to endure), you might feel a little worse for wear now that the New Year has passed. It’s time to get back to reality and back into shape!

Are you looking for some healthy snacks to replace the sugar cookies you’ve been munching on? Check out these nutritious treats that can counter your indulgent holiday.

Detox Tea:

After all of the holiday parties you’ve attended, your insides might be in dire need of some detoxifying ingredients. Many people drink a little too much alcohol or eat a little too much sugar and salt over the holidays, so it’s time to give your body a little healing. Check out your local health food store and ask about the latest detoxing teas to try. Typically, such teas are full of ingredients like turmeric, dandelion root, and other antioxidants that will get your body and soul back in shape in no time.

Naturally Sweetened Snacks:

Is your sweet tooth out of control right now? That needs to change. Snacking on sugary candies and junk food can be detrimental to your overall health. Sugar can drain your energy levels and even cause life-altering diseases such as diabetes.

Fortunately, you can get yourself a stash of healthier candies to snack on, like delicious vegan gummy bears. The plant based candy uses natural flavors and sweeteners instead of artificial flavors and refined sugars to satisfy your sweet tooth. You can try bags of mixed berry, tropical citrus, or the variety pack to get a little taste of every flavor.

Naturally sweetened snacks let you satiate your strongest cravings so that you can easily stick to a healthy lifestyle.

Nuts:

Nuts are delicious snacks that are full of protein and antioxidants. The next time you’re hankering for something salty and crunchy, grab a handful of almonds, peanuts, or pecans instead of chips. You can even toss them on top of salads for an additional source of fiber and protein. If it’s omega 3 that you’re looking for — the fatty acids critical to skin, hair, and most importantly, heart health — always keep a jar of walnuts nearby because they’re chockfull of the stuff.

Fresh Air:

While it’s not a snack, per se, getting outside and enjoying some much-needed fresh air might be just what the doctor ordered. The exercise will get you out of the house and get your blood pumping. It will also give you an opportunity to soak up vitamin D, even when the sun is hiding behind grey clouds.

Try to go for a walk once a day. A simple stroll around your neighborhood could do you a lot of good.

The holidays are over. It’s time to take better care of yourself. Let these healthy tips guide you as you start the New Year.