COURTESY MANA. MD

Healthy eating during the holiday season is a real challenge. It all starts back in October when the kids bring home those big bags of candy that linger until late November. Then there’ s that large turkey dinner complete with rich sauces, savory side dishes, and a well-stocked dessert table. Of course, there are leftovers. Once December rolls around, sweets and treats are handed out left and right. With another large family feast on the horizon for Christmas, it seems reasonable to throw good eating habits out the window and try for a fresh start after New Year’ s Day.

GE ST

Food is an important part of holiday tradition for many families. There are often fond feelings and happy memories associated with food. It’ s not just the holiday meals that make healthy eating during the holiday season difficult, however. It’ s cold outside and dark more of the time; you want to stay in and eat comforting foods.

However, eating unhealthy convenience foods and ultra processed foods can lead to digestive problems. Highly processed, or ultraprocessed, foods include frozen dinners, chips, and convenience foods, but also many other foods you might not consider unhealthy. Breakfast cereals, bagels, cold cuts, white bread, shredded cheese, and ketchup are all highly processed. This is especially true when you eat these foods in large amounts. Here are a few tips to help you maintain healthy eating habits during the holidays.

MODERATION IS KEY

It’ s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit and disregard portion sizes, calorie counts, and nutritional values. Apply your healthy eating habits to holiday meals, too. You don’ t have to completely avoid your Grandma’ s buttery sweet potato casserole or your traditional chocolate Buche de Noel; just enjoy treats and decadent foods in moderation.

OURHEALTHNWA. COM 8 DECEMBER 2025 | PREVENTION AND WELLNESS ISSUE