Christmas time is arriving soon, and for many, this means that seasonal depression and anxiety are also well underway. If you are someone who takes to your favorite foods as a coping mechanism, you’re not alone. However, as important as it is to take care of our minds, it’s equally important to be taking care of our bodies. Holidays are a time to splurge on your favorite meals and spend time with loved ones, so take the time to be conscious about what you’re putting in your body leading up to the season’s festivities. With that being said, eating healthy does not have to be boring or flavorless! If you’re interested in enjoying great meals with a little added nutrition, keep reading for a list of healthy alternatives to your favorite comfort foods.

Healthy Sugar Cookies

Looking for a fun way to get the kids involved during the holiday season? Look no further! These healthy sugar cookies are tasty, healthy, and fun to decorate. Using whole wheat flour and maple syrup as a natural sweetener, they have a buttery flavor and a great texture for making cutouts. These cookies will be a hit for kids big and small!

Find the full recipe here.

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? This recipe takes the traditional dish and turns it into an antioxidant-rich, creamy, and delicious alternative. It’s the prime season for butternut squash, so you won’t want to miss out on this nutritious and cheesy meal. If you’re looking for extra ways to make mac and cheese just a little healthier, you can use gluten-free or whole-grain pasta, include more blended veggies, add protein, and so much more. Tailor it to your and your family’s liking, the options are endless!

Find the full recipe here.

Low-Calorie Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are just plain good for the soul. Fortunately, this recipe makes eating them absolutely guilt-free! Potatoes themselves are extremely good for you seeing as though they’re low in fat and high in potassium, but the way they’re prepared might negate this. This recipe substitutes some of the less healthy ingredients in mashed potatoes for nutritious alternatives. Full in flavor, and low in calories, these mashed potatoes are a must for your dinner table. For a little bit of extra fun, bring them for Christmas dinner and see if anyone can taste the difference! (We doubt they will!)

Find the full recipe here.

Paleo Buffalo Chicken Pizza

You know what they say, all pizza is good pizza! This one in particular is gluten-free, dairy-free, easy to make, and tasty to boot. Using a five-ingredient pizza crust, moist chicken thighs, and a stunning spicy aioli, this dish will make your family forget about the pizza delivery man. A great flavor, comforting, and healthy? Sign us up!

Find the full recipe here.

Black Bean Burgers

It's an American classic with a healthy twist! These are not your lunch lady’s black bean burgers, they’re thick, filling, and oh-so-good. This recipe maker’s trick is to dry out the beans to eliminate the mushiness often found in burgers of the same type. Additionally, the use of seasoning to create a garlicky burger with a bite makes this recipe the best of the best. Try it with whole-grain or sweet potato buns for added nutrition!

Find the full recipe here.

Veggie-Packed Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Great for holiday parties or just to snack on at home, this spinach and artichoke dip is sure to be a hit. On top of being delectably cheesy and creamy, this dish has a secret added benefit. Instead of using heavy dairy products, the recipe calls for cauliflower and a touch of Greek yogurt! Not only will everyone be asking for the recipe, but you can also brag about how healthy it is too!

Find the full recipe here.

Treat your mind, treat your body, and take care of yourself this holiday season!

If you or a loved one may be at risk, don’t hesitate to contact CADS for substance abuse support, recovery, prevention, and treatment services.

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