Welcoming Wellbeing Goals Through the Holidays

by the Cow Creek Health and Wellness Center Healthy Living Team

With the holiday season, we often hear that wellbeing goals get challenged, with tempting treats and gifts of food. One person’s treat can be another person’s pain. For example, a person may need to refrain from foods with dairy because dairy upsets digestion or causes inflammation that contributes to a diagnosis  they’re working to reverse without drugs, such as prediabetes or chronic pain.

While food brings people together, it can be helpful to remember people also gather for social connection. Gatherings are a time to celebrate each others’  successes, hobbies, and ambitions. It’s a time to both listen and be heard, a time to share gratitude and feel the social support we need to thrive.

We want to offer a few strategies to help holiday and family meals be both a joy and also welcome individual wellbeing goals:

Plan Ahead

As a host, make a quick ask about food sensitivities, allergies, or dietary needs or preferences before the event. Depending on your style, get curious about options to order in, pick up a special freezer item to reheat, adapt a recipe, or invite the guest to bring an entrée to share.

Think Potluck

Have notecards ready for guests to list their ingredients. Set the notecards by each dish. Encourage plant-forward recipes. Have fun with it!

Center on Salad

Create a big salad bowl for the table centerpiece, with bright leafy greens and a design of colorful fruits, veggies, and legumes on top. We’d love to see pictures of the art that comes together with your centerpiece salad bowl! Offer a simple balsamic vinegar or lemon for dressing.

Develop Mindfulness

Some people choose to relax away from their nutrition goals at a holiday event. We encourage aiming for small portions and simply honoring the choice. Get mindful and back on board when ready, with kindness. Every day is a fresh opportunity to embrace choices that empower you and your best self.

This article comes to you from the Cow Creek Health and Wellness Center Healthy Living Team

Please reach out to one of our Lifestyle Coaches for lifestyle and nutrition support, or join one of the Diabetes Prevention Program groups!

Hannah Corbett:
(541) 672-8533, ext 5267

April Gilliom:
(541) 672-8533, ext. 5226