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We are in the aftermath of Christmas and many of us may already be suffering from the effects of the excess chocolate,sugar, desserts, calories and alcohol that is so typical in many homes. If this is your case, I invite you to continue reading because I have learned that it is possible to enjoy a traditional Christmas, with rich food and delicious desserts without having to subject the body with huge amounts of junk food that later cause us discomfort, swelling, excess weight, weakness, irritability …

Some may think that all Christmas products are unhealthy, but that’s not true. You just have to know how to choose the ones that best suit you. For example, instead of abusing sauces, foie gras, champagne, industrial nougat, sausage … opt for other options or at least make some adjustment to the traditional. And yes, they are just as delicious (or even more).

Seafood

Prawns, oysters, lobster … they are infallible healthy options for a Christmas table because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, calcium and also have antioxidant properties. They are very versatile: you can cook them on the grill, steamed, or made in the oven … You just have to be careful with the sauces that we put on top, which is usually the most common failure.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are low in calories, provide plant proteins and minerals such as iodine, copper, phosphorus, potassium and iron. In addition, they are a good supply of vitamin B and E and help balance cholesterol and blood sugar, strengthen the immune system and have anti-inflammatory substances. You can cook them in a light sauce to accompany your stews, although grilled is perhaps the simplest and most delicious way to enjoy all their flavor without complications.

Lombarda

The queen of Christmas vegetables and for me, one of the best accompaniments for meat and fish, especially those that we cook in the oven. I suggest that you eat this delicious dish of Grilled Red Cabbage with Plum sauce to surprise your guests in your next celebration. In addition to giving an exquisite flavor, it is a light dish, with few calories, a large amount of laxative fiber and it is also satiating, all of them ideal properties to maintain our weight these holidays.

Blue fish

Being rich in Omega 3, its consumption helps us prevent cardiovascular diseases. Examples of blue fish are sardines, tuna, herring, mackerel … although for these Christmas holidays I propose swordfish and salmon, because they are two options that have a very good result as a main dish on the most tables. If you are still looking for a recipe, I suggest this Crispy Salmon in Almond Sauce.

Dried fruits

Raisins, dates, dried apricots or figs are good examples. They have less fat than nuts, are rich in fiber, iron and antioxidants, strengthen the immune system and prevent cell aging, so why not make a tray with these rich and healthy sweets? Or if you prefer to take them as a salty appetizer, I propose these delicious Bacon-stuffed Dates.

Nuts

Like dehydrated fruits, I suggest that you make another tray with a varied assortment of almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, pine nuts … Always a yes! Raw and without salt. For me, one of the simplest and richest appetizers! They are a great source of energy and natural fats; They are also rich in proteins and Omega 3 fatty acids. You can also use a nut cream, like this Cashew butter, to decorate your desserts.

Grapes

Most households do the traditional 12 grapes on the night of December 31, but do not limit their consumption to just that moment. Grapes are delicious, a perfect dessert for these days rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. In addition, their high potassium and low salt content makes them a great way to eliminate fluids and get rid of that excess toxins that have accumulated over these days.

Chocolate

It’s almost impossible to think of a celebration without chocolate, right? Well, believe it or not it is also an essential food in a healthy diet: it has high amounts of magnesium, antioxidants, calcium, iron and chromium. In addition, its consumption is related to the production of serotonin and, therefore, to the state of happiness, pleasure and good humor. But beware! Not all chocolates are the same. I recommend that you opt for natural cocoa, without added sweeteners or dairy. The one that is not missing on my table these holidays is Chocolicius de Naranja y Ginger.

Ginger

Its aroma and flavor are very typical for Christmas, with ginger drinks and desserts such as these Gluten-free Gingerbread Cookies. In addition, its properties are endless, although what I like the most about ginger at this time of year is that it is antibacterial and strengthens the immune system. I also drink it as an infusion after the most copious meals during these days since it is super good for indigestion and to regulate gastric acids.

Granada

This fruit, typical during winter months, is very interesting due to its high content of antioxidant substances, but it also protects against the flu and other colds. Having high water content, it is a diuretic fruit that helps to purify the kidneys and eliminate fluid retention. For me, the best way to eat it is in a smoothie (I recommend that you combine it with orange and ginger) or in a salad. Have you prepared this Grilled Chicken with Vegetables and Pomegranate Salad? What are you waiting for?