5 Healthy Foods to Eat During the Holidays

The holidays are a time for celebration and connection—along with some delicious meals! While it’s easy to get swept up in holiday treats, it’s also the perfect opportunity to incorporate nutritious foods that support your overall health and well-being. As a transformational nutrition and wellness coach, I believe in finding balance—and a great way to do that during the holidays is to enjoy seasonal flavors while making choices that nourish your body.

Here are some delicious, healthy foods to enjoy this season.

1. Sweet Potatoes

One of the best dietary choices you can make during the holidays is sweet potatoes. These vibrant root vegetables are rich in vitamin A, which supports healthy skin and vision, and are an excellent source of fiber. Sweet potatoes are very versatile to make—try them mashed, roasted, air fried, or in a casserole—and are naturally sweet and satisfying, making them a perfect alternative to refined carbs. Add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to boost flavor and antioxidant benefits.

2. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are another powerhouse of the holiday season. These cruciferous vegetables are a nutritional goldmine, packed with vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants that support immune function and reduce inflammation. Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and creates a crispy texture that is ideal for holiday meals. Toss them with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for extra flavor and nutrients.

3. Cranberries

Cranberries are another antioxidant-rich holiday staple. While they often appear in sugary sauces and desserts, they shine just as brightly au naturel. Fresh or lightly sweetened cranberries are loaded with proanthocyanidins, antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and promote urinary tract health. Incorporating cranberries into salads, grain dishes, or even a homemade compote lets you enjoy their tart, refreshing taste without excess sugar.

4. Nuts

A small serving of spiced or lightly roasted nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds curbs cravings while offering a satisfying crunch, making them the perfect snack or even dessert. These nutrient-dense foods provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which helps satiate hunger and stabilize blood sugar levels. Walnuts, in particular, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. 

5. Citrus Fruits

Don’t overlook the humble citrus fruits that come into season during the holidays. Oranges, grapefruits, and clementines are packed with vitamin C, a key nutrient for boosting immunity during the colder months. Their natural sweetness makes them a perfect addition to salads, desserts, or even as a standalone snack. The bright, zesty flavors of citrus elevates savory dishes, adding a refreshing contrast of flavor coupled with an antioxidant punch.

6. Winter Squash

Winter squash like butternut or acorn are naturally sweet and rich in flavor–and packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C that support immune health, promote glowing skin, fight inflammation, and boost eye health. Its high fiber content promotes healthy digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full. Winter squash is also an excellent source of potassium, which supports heart health and promotes healthy blood pressure. 

Healthy eating during the holidays is about balance and embracing the best of what the season has to offer in both flavor and healthy benefits. These filling, delicious foods will help you enjoy holiday meals and add variety without sacrificing your health and nutrition goals.