During holiday season the sight of cookies heaped onto holiday platters is difficult to resist. Never mind the decadent fudges, peanut brittle, and other sugary sweets! Holidays are an epicurean delight, are they not?
Alas, metabolisms ran higher in youth and calories were burned in outdoor activities or plotting just how to snag an extra treat while no one was watching. The aging process often presents restrictive diets, avoiding sodium, and limiting sugars. When holidays arrive, more occasions exist to indulge or host get togethers for friends and family. Bridge to Better Living has tips for celebrating the holidays and choosing healthy options simultaneously.
Instead of reaching for the candy dish, have walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Throw in craisins (dried cranberries) and raisins to satisfy sweet tooths.
Is fudge healthy? ErinLivesWhole.com believes so. She uses almond butter, filled with protein and low in saturated fat, coconut milk containing “good” triglycerides, and maple syrup to add vital antioxidants. Try the easy recipe below.
Healthy Fudge
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips: 2 cups
- Coconut Milk: 1/2 cup, use the thick white part from the top.
- Almond Butter: 1/3 cup
- Maple Syrup: 1/4 cup
- Salt: Just add a pinch
- Vanilla: 1 teaspoon
Melt first five ingredients over medium-low heat, stirring often. Stir in vanilla and pour into a greased 9×5 loaf pan. Refrigerate 2 hours before cutting into small pieces.
Salty cravings may be satisfied with sardines, goat cheese dip with rice crackers, or veggie chips. Add olives to the snack tray and voila! A small bowl of oyster soup and no one goes home hungry!
Select a healthy main dish, avoiding sodium infused hams. Seniors with heart conditions are advised to shun red meat. Instead, serve salmon, turkey, or bake a vegetarian dish such as stuffed acorn squash.
Stay hydrated with water and fruit juices. Limit alcohol intake and revel in friendships instead.
Bridge to Better Living is dedicated to maintaining Quality of Life. We wish all Seniors and their loved ones health and joy every day. Call Bridge to Better Living and discover how their unique one-on-one approach to Senior Living transition is a best first choice.