Eating Right During the Holidays « the school at steps - NYC / Dance Classes / Children Ages 2

Choosing the right foods to fuel our bodies is important. As dancers we need healthy foods that are high in protein and low in sugars so we can perform to our fullest. As we enter Nutcracker season we are often challenged with temptations of delicious holiday meals and decadent sweets. It is possible to eat healthy at holiday parties and family gatherings, and remember, it is also okay to enjoy some sweets in moderation. Enjoy this Holiday Season with these healthy tips!

Enjoy the benefits of these healthy holiday foods:

Cranberries: high in antioxidants
Dark Leafy Green Vegetables: high in Vitamin K
Ginger: aids digestion
Green Beans: contain iron
Ham: high in protein
Pecans: source of Vitamin E and protein
Peppermint: source of calcium and iron, and if used as an essential oil, relaxes muscles
Pumpkin: high in fiber
Sweet Potatoes: low glycemic index, source of beta-carotene

Healthy Holiday Tip: Instead of using refined sugar, try using nutmeg or cinnamon as sweeteners this holiday season.

Read more about healthy holiday eating tips from our Healthy Body Workshop sponsor Dance Spirit Magazine

Fun Facts:

December 12th is National Poinsettia Day
Turkeys can run at speeds around 20mph and fly at speeds up to 55 mph
All snowflakes have six sides and no two snowflakes are the same.

Activities that will keep you moving during your holiday break:

shoveling snow
decorating a Christmas tree or other holiday decorating
cooking a healthy holiday meal
hanging outdoor lights
holiday shopping
making a snowman
ice skating
sledding
skiing/snowboarding

Learn to cook this holiday season with Teen Cuisine Author and Chef, Matthew Locricchio.

Join us at our Healthy Body Workshop on January 28, 2012, where Chef Locricchio will teach us how to make some of his healthy recipes, live!

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad with Fresh Lime Dressing
Hippie Granola