Viva Vitality: Healthy holiday gift ideas

By Ashley Bray on December 13, 2019.

Have you ever received a less-than healthy holiday gift, and found yourself thinking ‘how am I going to eat all of the holiday goodies I have received?’ You are not the only one. Canadians spend $460.2 million on snacks, candy and sweets in December – that’s $134.1 million over the monthly average. Indulgent treats over the holidays can add up quickly between social events, stocking stuffers and sweets in the office break room.

This year, instead of giving these typical gifts, try giving family, friends and colleagues a gift that will promote health during the holiday season, and all year round.

1. Healthy Foods – Healthy foods can be delicious! A basket of whole wheat muffins and clementine oranges makes a great gift. Or give a gift that can be enjoyed after the holiday season by mixing together the dry ingredients of a recipe in a jar (muffins, soups, pancakes and dips work well) and writing the directions on a card.

2. Cookbooks – Give a cookbook for year round enjoyment. Match the cookbook with the recipient. If there are children in the family, give a cookbook with recipes that can involve everyone. Plan a group activity and choose a healthy recipe to make together. Visit healthyeatingstartshere.ca for healthy recipe ideas.

3. Cooking Tools – From a spatula to a slow cooker, having the correct tools to prepare healthy recipes makes a difference. Try pairing a mini whisk with homemade hot chocolate mix for an easy stocking stuffer or gift for a neighbour.

4. Spice Blends – Create homemade spice blends such as taco seasoning, rosemary garlic or Italian seasonings to make weeknight cooking fast and full of flavour. Include a recipe card with the ingredients so they can make more when the jar is empty.

5. Cooking Classes – Cooking classes are an opportunity to learn new skills, try new foods and enjoy food with others. Check your local grocery store and local businesses for a variety of cooking classes. If there aren’t cooking classes available nearby, offer to teach a friend how to make a favourite holiday meal!

6. Active Living Gifts – Consider gifts that promote physical activity. Give recreation centre passes, sports equipment or a physical activity tracker. Experiences are also great gifts. Plan a winter hike, go snowshoeing or find a hill to go sledding. Look for locally available active experiences to enjoy together!

The holidays are a great time to enjoy seasonal foods with family and friends. So go ahead and enjoy your favourites in moderation. Keep your health, and that of your loved ones in mind by choosing healthy activities, and giving gifts that support health and wellness.

Ashley Bray is a Registered Dietitian with Alberta Health Services, Nutrition Services. She can be reached by e-mail, Ashley.Bray@ahs.ca.