What do marshmallows, pumpkins, eggnog, popcorn, and pears have in common?

They are  foods associated with holiday recipes, and they’re mentioned in songs about Christmas. You’ll also recognize some less everyday foods like chestnuts , figgy pudding,collard greens and wassail.

 

Recipes from Holiday Carols 

We all enjoy our holiday traditions of eating and drinking special foods and beverages; we even sing about them. But these  can cause problems for people who need to manage what they eat and drink for medical reasons.

Nutritional management is a major part of living with these conditions-

• diabetes and high cholesterol
• celiac disease/gluten sensitivity
• nut and other food allergies
• lactose intolerance
• overweight/obesity
• alcohol dependence
• heart, kidney, and liver dysfunction
• pregnancy
• migraine

PRACTICAL TIPS ON PARTY FOOD AND MEAL PLANNING

Planning ahead to manage holiday stress also applies to cooking, entertaining and eating during the holiday season.

If you  plan and prepare holiday meals and parties, remember  some attendees need to avoid or restrict certain types of foods. Offer an ample variety of types of food and drinks so  your guests will find something that works for them.

If you have houseguests, they will appreciate your asking them about dietary needs or restrictions so you can  have food available to meet their needs.

If you have special needs in regards to food, it may be wise to offer to bring a dish to an event , or take food to eat if you will be someone’s houseguest.

EXPERT ADVICE ON HEALTHY HOLIDAY EATING

“Naughty” Holiday Foods 

from WebMD

Tips for Managing Diabetes  from the Centers for Disease Control

Holiday Healthy Eating Guide  

from the American Heart Association

(a printable or downloadable PDF document)

Delicious gluten free recipes from PositiveHealthWellness

Maintaining Sobriety While Celebrating  from Addiction Hope 

Here is an affiliate link to find your favorite holiday music.