Healthy Eating During the Holidays

It’s no secret that the average American gains a lot of weight around the holiday season—anywhere from seven to ten pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, in fact.* But even if you’re not ready to give up all your holiday indulgences (pass the egg nog), there’s still plenty you can do to maintain a healthy eating routine during the coming season.

As you prepare for the upcoming holiday parties and special occasions, remember these tips and you’ll be in good shape come the New Year:

1. Don’t skip meals—It may be tempting to skip lunch in anticipation of a turkey feast, but cutting back during the day often leads to eating excess later. If you eat regularly during the day and focus on healthy snacks, you will be much less tempted to splurge as the day goes on.
2. Control your portions—As with any good diet, moderation is the key to maintaining your health. You can go ahead and enjoy your favorite dessert, just treat yourself to a reasonable serving.
3. Eat slowly—There’s no need to be in a rush! Concentrate on conversing with friends and family. Take small bites and chew completely. Then, once you are finished with your meal, leave the table to avoid further temptation.
4. Bring healthy alternatives—If you have a food assignment, replace high-calorie dishes with a healthier option. For example: In place of pumpkin or pecan pie, try Young Living’s Apple Wolfberry Pie (see recipe below).

Don’t forget that Young Living Therapeutic Grade™ essential oils are a great way to incorporate healthy habits into your holiday celebrations. Did you know that when you cook with essential oils, you get all the great taste of traditional herbs and spices without any unnecessary preservatives? And from November 14–20, you can get a special discount on some of our most popular cooking oils. Check the promotions section of www.youngliving.com for more information on the Holiday Cooking with Essential Oils promotion and remember to have a fun and healthy holiday season!

Apple Wolfberry Pie Filling

¾ c. Blue Agave
1 drop nutmeg essential oil
2 drops ocotea essential oil or cinnamon bark essential oil
4 c. organic apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith is preffered)
1 Tbsp. rice flour
½ c. dried wolfberries

Mix all ingredients (except rice flour) in a large skillet. Simmer until apples are soft and crisp. Add rice flour and mix until blended. Place in an unbaked pie shell and apply an egg wash around the edge of the shell. Add the pie top and pinch the edges together. Make at least four two-inch slits on top of the pie to release stem. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for ten minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake an additional fifteen minutes, or until crust is lightly browned. Makes pie filling for one pie.

* http://www.betterhealthusa.com/public/273.cfm

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