Celebrate A Happy, Healthy Hanukkah & Holidays!

December is a month filled with holidays and celebrations and this week we are currently in the midst of Hanukkah! This year, Hanukkah began on Sunday, December 2^ndand willend on Monday night, December 10^th. Also known as the “Festival of Lights”, we celebrate the victory of the Maccabees against the large Syrian army and the rededication of the Holy Temple. Oil that was found in the Temple was only enough to burn one day, but instead it was used to light the candle which burned for eight days. This is now commemorated through the lighting of the Menorah for eight days.

Hanukkah Traditions

This isa time where family and friends come together in observance of this holiday, bringing about a joyous ambiance filled with games, singing songs and of course, food! Since the oil in the candle lighting plays a significant part, eating oily foods has become a major tradition.

One popular traditional sweet that is often eaten is Sufganiyot, which are jelly donuts. These delicacies are deep-fried, filled with jam and coated with sugar. Another well-known favorite are latkes, which are traditional potato pancakes that are fried.

Now, I know what you may bethinking, “I should stay away from these” or “I can’t eat that”. However, that isn’t true!You don’t need to deprive yourself or completely restrict these foods while trying to eat healthy through the holiday.You can still enjoy traditional foods without the added guilt.

3 tips to keep in mind for a healthy and guilt-free holiday:

Trust Yourself & Your Body– Be in tune with your body and listen to it. It will give you signals that will help with your food choices and your cues for satiety.

Be Mindful– Before you go and serve yourself a large portion, start off with a small one. Savor your favorite foods, enjoy every bite and take your time in doing so. By the time you’re done, you might not find the need for more as you will be satisfied.

It’s Not All About The Food– Enjoying traditional foods are only a part of the festivities, it shouldn’t be the main focus. Think about the purpose of what you’re celebrating and why all your family and friends have come together. They make the best company.

Not into savory latkes, or just looking for something other than jelly donuts?

Luckily, tomorrow is National Brownie Day. Celebrate by enjoying a classic fudge brownie or add your own healthy twist to your batch! Whatever wayyou choose to eat it, remember to listen to your body, whether its brownies, baked goods or any traditional foods that you expect to find at your holiday festivities. Be mindful and most of all enjoy every minute that you get to spend with friends and family!

Happy Hanukkah and Happy holidays!

Your turn to take action:What will you eat at your next holiday celebration? Let me know in the comments below.