5 Healthy Holiday Sides for Seniors
No holiday feast is complete without savory side dishes. While the holidays are known as a time for indulgence, that doesn’t mean health-conscious seniors have to feel guilty about enjoying tasty dishes. There are plenty of options for delicious, nutritious sides that support older adults’ health and wellness.
5 Nutritious Side Dishes for Seniors
Looking for some healthy holiday side dishes to try this season? Here are five of our favorites!
1. Healthy Homemade Gravy
A fresh, juicy turkey is great. But drippings of homemade gravy on top make it even better! Unfortunately, gravy can be full of fat. Consuming too much fat can increase the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and obesity.
Want to make healthy, flavorful gravy? Swap out your traditional recipe for flour, fat-free turkey broth, and fresh seasonings.
2. Green Bean Casserole
Casseroles are a holiday meal must-have. While this dish is delicious, it’s no secret that casserole can contain many unhealthy fillers. A healthier alternative is green bean casserole. Green beans support digestive health, boost immunity, and are good for your heart. Try this easy green bean casserole. It only takes about 30 minutes to make.
You can also fill your casserole with a low-sodium cream of mushroom soup.
3. Mashed Cauliflower
Another holiday side staple is mashed potatoes. However, boxed mash can contain high levels of fat and sodium, and fresh mashed potatoes are often loaded with full-fat milk and butter. Prepare fresh mashed cauliflowers instead. These white veggies are a fantastic source of antioxidants that promote immunity. Cauliflowers may also aid in weight loss and are high in fiber.
Don’t like cauliflowers? Try mashed sweet potatoes instead.
4. Hydrating Beverages
It can be easy to drink one too many glasses of sugary sodas or alcoholic cocktails during the holidays. However, these beverages can dehydrate and impair you. Want something more flavorful than water that’s also healthy? Try seasonal teas. Not only are these teas tasty, but certain teas have numerous health benefits. For instance, herbal tea supports immunity and reduces inflammation.
Another healthy holiday drink is apple cider. It puts you in the festive spirit and is a lot better for you than eggnog.
5. Tempting Desserts
Lastly, finish your holiday meal on a healthy note by enjoying a better-for-you dessert. Try fresh fruits, nuts, and vegan cookies instead of pie, cake, or ice cream.
If you still want to tempt your taste buds with traditional holiday treats, remember that moderation is key. Never go back for seconds.
Visiting Angels of Wilkes-Barre, PA, Helps Seniors Enjoy Healthy Holiday Meals
Visiting Angels of Wilkes-Barre, PA, is available to help local seniors and their families. Our experienced caregivers help with non-medical tasks so that our clients and their families can focus on quality time together during the holidays–and always.
Contact us today at (570) 270-6700 for more information.