Eating Healthy for the Holidays

The holidays can be challenging for anyone trying to follow a special diet. When throwing a party or inviting guests over for holiday meals, try to remember that other people may need to watch what they’re eating. If you’re not sure, err on the side of caution and include some low-sugar, low-salt or low-everything items on the menu. Healthy food benefits everyone, even those without notable medical conditions.

At Interim HealthCare we see a special struggle with our home eldercare patients. Due to diabetes, hypertension and heart conditions, many of our at home senior care clients are on very strict diets.

From feeling self-conscious about admitting health problems to being tempted by sensational sights and smells, people on these plans often avoid the simplest way through it. Just ask. If the host or hostess questions it, they should briefly explain that the doctor would be unhappy if you didn’t follow his instructions.

On the other hand, cooking for people with dietary restrictions doesn’t need to be rocket science. When inviting guests to dinner or a party, ask in casual conversation if there is anything they are allergic to or cannot have by doctor’s orders. This will make them less self-conscious about requesting special accommodations.

If it is a family member, ask their senior home care aide for any tips or suggestions for meal preparation. Making a few substitutions in the kitchen will benefit everyone, not just those who must watch what they eat.

Choose cheeses with less than 5 grams of fat per ounce and use cholesterol-free margarine instead of butter. Look for packages that say reduced fat, low fat or fat free.

When serving salad, do not offer dressings high in cholesterol, sugar and sodium. Instead, label fat-free bottled variety in bowls or set out cruets of olive oil, vinegar and lemon juice. These add a bit of zing for taste, but little else.

Trim excess fat from meats before broiling, baking or poaching. Avoid sautéed or fried foods. Gravies and sauces should be made with skim milk or fresh vegetables with no salt added, when possible. Serve them in a dish on the side so that guests may avoid them altogether. Mustard is a tasty alternative, as well.

Starches can be tricky. Instead of potatoes, consider serving rice or yolk-free noodles.

Desserts are by far the most challenging part of the meal. Do not tempt your guests with sugary confections. Stick to fresh fruits, sugar-free angel food or sponge cake.

Whenever possible, try not to tempt your guests with things they cannot have. This may lead to less than happy holidays and complicate their medical conditions.