Ways to Stay Healthy this Holiday Season!

12/20/16

December’s here and in many parts of the country that means chillier weather. If you find yourself craving a warm beverage to combat the colder temps, hot cocoa is often the drink of choice. However, as you’ve learned in BOKS, it can also be high in sugar. So make a DIY version to lower sugar with 1 cup of low-fat milk, 2 tsp cocoa power, and 1-2 tsp sugar. Nothing better than a nice warm breakfast to start off those chilly mornings too. Eggs, cheese, and whole grain toast create a balanced high-protein meal that satisfies and energizes to get you through the morning until lunch. If you do find hunger levels rising in between meals though, how about a super-healthy snack of nuts full of protein & healthy fat. Skip the sugar-coated ones typically offered this time of year and instead choose cinnamon- or cocoa powder-covered varieties.

Click on this link for a free handout for other super healthy snack ideas to keep your energy up!

Speaking of this time of year, the holiday season is upon us & baking treats is common. Fine to enjoy these in small portions, but best to have after a meal and not on an empty stomach. And remember, treats are awesome to have on special occasions, but keep in mind it’s a “holi-day” not a “holi-month!” And speaking of months, this month finishes up this year. So happy 2017 and a great time to start the year off right by making a New Year’s resolution. A great one is to eat breakfast. So if you aren’t currently, do it! It will give you the energy and focus to perform your best throughout the day in school and extra-curricular activities alike.