Healthy Holiday Treats

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The holiday season is here, and while it’s a time for joy, it can also be a time when sugary treats seem to be everywhere. As a Doctor Mom, you might be wondering how to keep the holiday spirit alive while offering healthy snacks that are festive, tasty, and good for your kids. The good news? You can have it all!

Why Too Much Sugar Can Be A Problem

We all know how tempting holiday treats can be, from cookies and candy canes to cakes and hot chocolate. But consuming too much sugar, especially refined sugar, can have some negative effects on our kids’ health. Here’s why it’s worth keeping an eye on:

  1. Blood Sugar Spikes:
    Refined sugar causes a quick rise in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash that can leave kids feeling cranky, tired, and moody. This leads to a cycle of craving more sugar for that quick energy boost.
  2. Immune System Suppression:
    Sugar can temporarily weaken the immune system, making kids more vulnerable to illness, especially during the cold and flu season.
  3. Mood Swings and Focus Issues:
    Have you ever noticed your child bouncing off the walls after too much candy, only to crash later? That’s the sugar high followed by the inevitable low, which can make it hard for kids to focus and regulate their mood.

But here’s the thing: moderation is key. You don’t have to banish all sweets from your holiday table! The trick is to balance indulgence with nutrient-dense, whole-food snacks that your kids will enjoy.

Healthy Holiday Treat Ideas

Here are some fun, holiday snacks that are not only festive but also packed with nourishment and your kids will be excited to eat them!

  1. Homemade Energy Bites
    These are perfect for busy holiday days. They’re easy to make, and kids love them, and they pack a punch of protein. All you need are oats, nut butter, seeds, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can customize them with festive additions like pumpkin spice, dried cranberries, or coconut flakes. Check out this Homemade Energy Bites Recipe for inspiration.
  2. Apple Nachos
    This classic snack is a hit with kids! A plate of crisp apple slices drizzled with almond butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon give a sweet, crunchy treat that’s full of fiber and healthy fats. To take it the extra mile you can add extra toppings like sprinkled hemp hearts, coconut flakes, or a touch of honey. No recipe needed—just slice, spread, and sprinkle!
  3. Frozen Banana Pops
    These are a fun, festive treat that’s super simple. Dip bananas in dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher for the health benefits of cacao) and roll them in chopped nuts, seeds, freeze dried fruit, or unsweetened coconut. Freeze them, and you have a wholesome, sweet snack. Here’s a Banana Pops Recipe to try.
  4. Coconut Snowballs
    For a no-bake option, these little coconut snowballs are perfect! Shredded coconut and a touch of maple syrup create naturally sweet, nutrient-rich treats. Coat them in extra coconut for that snowy look! Check out this Coconut Snowballs Recipe for step-by-step instructions.
  5. Festive Veggie Platters
    Veggies can be fun when they’re arranged in a festive shape! Create a Christmas tree out of broccoli florets, baby tomatoes, and carrots, and serve it with hummus or guacamole. Kids love dipping, and this can be a fun way to sneak in extra veggies during holiday parties.

Finding Balance

While it’s great to have healthy snacks on hand, don’t stress about letting your kids enjoy some traditional holiday treats too. The holidays are all about balance! Allowing kids to enjoy sugary treats in moderation helps them learn how to enjoy food mindfully without going overboard.

Here are some ways to make classic treats a bit healthier:

  • Swap refined sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup.
  • Use whole grain flour or almond flour for more nutrients.
  • Add dark chocolate (with at least 70% cocoa) instead of milk chocolate to reduce sugar content and get the health benefits of cacao.

Baking holiday treats can still be a fun, memorable activity without loading up on sugar. Plus, when you involve your kids in the kitchen, it helps them form a positive relationship with food.

Happy Holidays

The holiday season should be about enjoying time with family, celebrating traditions, and creating wonderful memories. By incorporating healthy holiday snacks made from whole foods, you can give your kids treats that are both delicious and nourishing.

Remember, it’s not about perfection. It’s about offering wholesome choices that leave everyone feeling good. So get creative and enjoy the process!