Healthy Holiday Ingredient Swaps to Try This Year

However, the side effects that can result from too many rich and processed foods can be bloating, digestive troubles and overall feeling lethargic. Today, I have a few easy and delicious healthy ingredient swaps that will help you enjoy the holiday season and also feel your best!

Instead of Butter, Lard or Margarine Use Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can be swapped equally for butter, lard or margarine in a recipe. Coconut oil contains Medium Chain Triglycerides known as MCTs, which are a type of saturated fat that our body can digest easily and can be used as an energy source! Coconut oil also contains antibacterial properties, helping support a healthy immune system, which we all can benefit from this time of year! Another great aspect of coconut oil is that it has a high smoke point, meaning it does not cook away as easily as other oils, such as olive oil. This means you will be able to use less oil when cooking.

Instead Of Salt, Add Fresh Lemon Juice

Salt is a vital mineral for the proper workings of the human body, as well as potentially the most delicious thing on earth (second to chocolate). Sadly, when it comes to sodium, like anything else, too much is not a good thing. A diet high in sodium can contribute to high blood pressure, water retention and dehydration. To cut back on salt when making dishes, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice instead of that second pinch of salt. Lemons are full of vitamin C, an immune boosting anti-oxidant. Lemons also contain nutrients that can help our body to naturally cleanse and detoxify.

Instead of Processed White Bread, Switch To Whole-Wheat Bread Crumbs

When making your stuffing or bread dressing this holiday season, choose whole-grain or sprouted whole-wheat breadcrumbs instead of white bread. White bread is often processed and then “enriched” with nutrients that were stripped from the bread during processing. One hundred percent whole-wheat bread contains fiber, b-vitamins and even protein! In addition to healthy bread, add vegetables to your bread dressing such as carrots, celery and onion to increase overall nutrition.

Instead of Cream or Half-and-Half, Use Coconut Milk

When cooking or baking, use canned coconut milk in place of whole milk or half-and-half. The consistency is similar and can be swapped equally 1 cup for 1 cup. Many adults lack the enzymes necessary to digest lactose, the type of sugar found naturally in dairy foods. This can result in gas, bloating and even constipation. To replace heavy cream, simply keep your canned coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight; the coconut cream will separate from the coconut water making it easy to scoop and enjoyed as heavy cream.

Instead of White Potatoes, Use Cauliflower

Mashed or whipped cauliflower has a similar texture, appearance and taste to mashed white potatoes! Cauliflower is fiber-packed and is also rich in vitamins and minerals. If you’re watching your blood sugar levels or overall sugar intake, whipped cauliflower is the way to go. Top with gravy and you really will not be able to tell a difference!

If you’re excited to try some of these swaps, I’ve included a great recipe below which includes a few of these recommendations! My recipe for Whipped Cauliflower is creamy, healthy and decadent. I also love the addition of white beans for a boost of protein!