11/11/2025
Holiday foods are comforting, yes — but many pre-made options sneak in ultra-processed ingredients, long chemical-filled labels, and added sugars that can spike blood sugar, irritate digestion & fuel inflammation. 😬
Here are some tips for maintaining a more nutritious but still tasty spread:
1️⃣ Make from scratch when you can – I know how easy it is to just grab & go with store-bought options. But these dishes often hide MSG, preservatives, and seed oils.
2️⃣ Be intentional with your menu – Skip the charcuterie boards, even if they're more aesthetic. Packaged meats & cheeses contain nitrates & nitrites that you're much better off without!
3️⃣ Stuffing with whole ingredients – Pre-packaged mixes can include preservatives and flavor enhancers. Use fresh veggies, herbs, and gluten-free bread for a nutrient-rich alternative.
4️⃣ Fresh veggies always – If you need to save time on potatoes, the Whole Foods Market brand's box has one ingredient: potatoes. Otherwise, I recommend peeling, boiling & mashing your own! With fresh veggies, you're getting all the nutrients they offer!
5️⃣ Pumpkin pie with simple ingredients – Many ready-made pies are loaded with refined flour, sugar, and stabilizers. Make yours with real pumpkin, eggs, and a natural sweetener for a dessert you'll feel good about.
You don’t have to redo every dish — start with one or two swaps and see the difference. 👏
