Seven ways to eat healthier this season

Give yourself the gift of health this holiday using these seven tips for healthy seasonal eating. Seasonal nutrition means focusing on healthy foods in your diet that help you avoid mood swings, maintain energy and improve your ability to handle whatever the season brings your way.

Here are seven tips to help you eat healthier this holiday season:

1. Indulge in a couple of favorite holiday treats but be mindful when you eat them.

   Take time to savor the taste and smell, and notice the memories they might conjure up.

2. Offer to bring a healthy dish to holiday parties to ensure that you will have something nutritious to eat there.

   Then have just a taste of some of the other more indulgent foods at the event.

3. Take a colorful variety of vegetables with a dip using plain Greek yogurt to gatherings.

4. Try vegetable appetizers like marinated mushrooms, tomato bruschetta, roasted asparagus or stuffed tomatoes.

5. Serve pieces of different colored fruits cut up so small fingers can grasp them and enjoy the flavor and juiciness.

   Did you know that the different colors of fruits and vegetables signify their different nutritional benefits?

6. Put higher calorie, less nutritious foods in smaller bowls with smaller spoons to help ensure smaller portion sizes.

7. If you need a last minute gift for a favorite friend or family member, consider giving the gift of a cooking class or a session to learn more about nutrition in the coming year.