Recipes: Guilt-Free Ways to Celebrate

Holiday treats can pack a punch: they're often loaded with sugar, fat, calories or alcohol. There are ways to celebrate without overindulging, though. We’ve got tips to help you stay on track.

• Don’t let a focus on your fitness fall down this Christmas. Try these tips when you don’t have a lot of time.
• Plan meals and snacks and be intentional about getting in your water, fruits and vegetables for the day.
• Write down your favorite foods and only indulge in your absolute favorites – particularly when at holiday parties. When in doubt, you can consider some swapping.
• Don’t starve yourself before an event. Eat healthy so you don’t overeat when you’re faced with a buffet of treats.

Try healthier versions of your favorite foods. Or try new treats, like these recipes from Avera.

• Gingerbread Martini Mocktail: A drink recipe that skips the alcohol but makes the season bright.
• Chocolate Clementines: Take the tiny oranges on a dark-chocolate trip with this topping recipe.
• Blueberry Clusters: Fruit and chocolate again mix it up with this simple-but-satisfying dessert approach.
• Balsamic Vinegar Strawberries: Yes, fruit and vinegar can pair perfectly, and this recipe shows you how.
• Simple Crust-Free Apple Pie: Save the carbs for some other day and enjoy all the taste of this American classic that still packs plenty of crunch.

We’ve also got a guide to help you make the best choices when it comes to traditional treats. Are iced sugar cookies better for you than shortbread ones? You might be surprised.

If your tummy feels like you've gone a bit too far, you can use these tips to settle that stomach and improve GI health.

Get more health and nutrition information when you need it.