Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1308487
Katie McKee, MCN, RDN, LD, is a nutrition communicator for Dairy MAX. She's a registered dietitian nutritionist and leads a team of dietitians as the director of health and wellness. In her work, Katie focuses on simplifying science and empowering people to make small changes that lead to better health. She is a contributing author for Communicating Nutrition: The Authoritative Guide and is the co-author of DASH Diet Meal Prep: 100 Healthy Recipes and 6 Weekly Plans. WITH A NUTRITIONIST QUESTIONS 1. How can food connect families that may be celebrating this holiday season far apart? The holidays are a time when families near and far gather and share a meal together. Traditionally, it's one of our favorite ways to reconnect with those we haven't seen in a while, but this year, it may be best to plan for both in-person and virtual events. You can use many social distancing measures, including gathering with just your immediate family, to help keep everyone safe. If you need to go virtual, recipes and traditions are easy to share. You may not be in the same household, but you can enjoy the same dish together. Consider making a family recipe; it'll help you feel close to each other while maintaining your social distance. 2. The holidays can be stressful. What are some healthy ways to avoid stress eating? Stress usually has people reaching for foods or snacks that are high in saturated fats or added sugars. It comforts us. Chronic stress can affect your health and signal a fight-or-flight response, which can lead some to experience digestive issues. There's no simple solution to balancing stress nutritionally. Before the holiday intensity sets in, plan some easy swaps for high-calorie foods. Plain popcorn, carrots, or celery can give you that satisfying crunch. You can also find ways to reduce stress without food. If you're getting overwhelmed, look toward something relaxing, like meditation or breathing exercises, spending time with family, or getting some exercise, to cope. 3. While people are out traveling or holiday shopping, what are some smart ways to snack or eat on the go? When you know you'll be on the go, planning and preparation are your best tools. Prepping your snacks ahead of time and placing them in easy-to-transport, reusable containers, like silicone bags, plastic containers, or even mason jars, will help with portion control and prevent you from reaching for unhealthy snacks later. Some of my favorite healthy snacks are carrots and celery with a Greek yogurt dip, or a serving of fruit, dairy, and lean protein. Foods like hummus or Greek yogurt can help you feel fuller longer because of the protein. Fruits and vegetables can help you feel full because of the fiber. Registered dietitian Katie McKee dishes on the wonderful world of nutrition and offers smart eating tips for the season. 7 ABOUT KATIE " There's no 16