Everyone knows holidays are a time for indulgence! Candy, large meals and frequent consumption are part of many of our traditions. While the adage, “Everything in moderation” is true, it is important to remember that looking out for our health is important and can often go overlooked in times of celebration.

Here are some suggestions to keep your healthy eating as a priority during the upcoming holiday months. Firstly, choose to make healthy alternatives over quick snacks, party treats and potluck food. Instead of heavy dips, bags of sodium-high chips or sugar filled cupcakes, investigate other recipes that feature fruits, vegetables, and healthy grains.

Try:

• Apple-themed treats

• Pumpkin-themed treats

• Other vegetable and fruit treats

• Whole grain treats such as popcorn

• DIY trail mix

Limit:

• Cookies and other baked sweets

• Chips and chip dips

• Meatballs or other meat-centered items

• Pasta salads

Second, if you need store bought prepackaged or single serve items for school parties or trick-or treaters, opt for healthy options at the store. Look for snacks that do not contain artificial flavors, synthetic colors, added sugars, trans fat or high fructose corn syrup.

Try

• No sugar added applesauce or other fruit cups

• Whole grain snacks such as pretzels, popcorn or cereal bars

• Trail mix

• Limit

• Snack cakes

• Cookies

• Pudding packs

• Candy