The holiday season can be stressful. And if you’re hosting a holiday party, on top of the typical stress, you may be feeling the pressure of cooking and preparing, as well as the impact of extra calories and waste.
But you can enjoy a more relaxed and sustainable season. Try these healthy, eco-friendly party ideas–straight from culinary experts, including a vegan visionary, a raw food enthusiast, and a seasoned chef and restaurant owner.
5 Tips for hosting a healthy, eco-friendly, stress-free holiday party
1. Opt for sustainable, healthier foods
Throwing a fantastic holiday bash is all about celebration, and Art Eggertsen, the vegan chef known for ProBar, snack bars, totally gets that. He’s a big believer in diving into the party spread, but with a plan: fill up on healthier options, and you won’t feel the urge to go overboard on less healthy foods.
“Party meals are going to be there, and we need to participate,” he says. “But if we are well-fed, well nourished, and we’ve flooded our body with nutrition, we’re less likely to indulge.”
Keep a stash of fruits and veggies handy, and consider enjoying some fresh juices and nuts. These fiber-rich foods will help keep your blood sugar balanced so you’re less likely to be eyeballing the cookie tray all night. As an added bonus, eating “lower on the food chain” is one of the healthiest and most eco-friendly things we can do, according to a number of studies.
Raw food author, Ani Phyo, also recommends sneaking raw, nutrient-rich foods into the party menu. Who doesn’t love a good guacamole or a zesty salsa? “All raw food is a composed salad, combined in a different way,” she says.
Raw foods aren’t just eco-friendly; they’re also highly nutritious and keep you full longer. So, when you’re at the buffet, load up on the veggie-rich dishes. They’re better for you, better for the planet, and leave you feeling good.
You can still enjoy heavier dishes like meat and casseroles, of course. Just think of them as more of a garnish.
2. Plan (and cook) ahead
For a stress-free holiday party, Ivy Manning, versatile cook and author of Farm to Table Cookbook, recommends prepping as much as you can before the big day.
A helpful way to do this is cooking dishes like casseroles in the days before your party and keeping them in the freezer. Not only does this cut down on the eleventh-hour rush, but it also keeps you from buying less-than-healthy convenience foods.
“I try not to buy boxed stuff or prepared items because that’s where you find sodium and trans-fats,” Manning says. “I like to make my own crackers and dips.”
Chef Jeff Osaka, owner of Osaka Ramen in Denver, Colorado, echoes the sentiment of planning ahead. He recommends doing things like prepping meats or simmering soups well in advance for a more relaxed cooking experience–plus, you’ll get a deeper flavor.
Osaka also recommends asking for help when you need it. “A lot of people think they can do everything themselves,” he says. “But most people don’t mind helping out.” This tip that can turn mundane kitchen prep into something of a pre-party itself, too.
3. Opt for higher quality foods
Manning and Osaka both practice simplicity in their kitchens–even if it means spending a bit more.
“Buy the better brie and put it out with nice veggies. Put out a nice bowl of olives instead of the usual grocery store brand,” Manning says. If you start with foods that are simple yet high-quality, you don’t have to do much additional work to create a delicious spread.
4. Utilize leftovers
Sharing and packing up leftovers for your guests is a thoughtful gesture that cuts down on waste while keeping the holiday spirit alive. Plus, you’re giving your guests some extra enjoyment the following day.
Phyo recommends reusable glass jars and containers to pack up food for your guests. If you have some extra time and want to add a personal touch, decorate those jars with customized holiday stickers.
5. Think green party supplies
Each year, the average American uses the equivalent of seven trees through paper and other, similar products. Worldwide, we sacrifice a whopping 15 billion trees to make these goods. So go paperless, if possible.
Opting for cloth napkins over paper ones at your dinner party isn’t just classy–it’s eco-conscious. Plus, instead of hauling a pile of trash bags outside after the festivities end, you can simply add those napkins to a load of laundry.
You can also go paperless with invitations. Try sending digital ones through websites like Evite, Paperless Post, or Greenvelope. And for your physical Christmas cards, pick postcards that don’t need envelopes.
By implementing these health-conscious, eco-friendly ideas for your holiday party, you can take pride in making a positive impact on the environment and the lives of yourself and your loved ones. Here’s to celebrating responsibly, supporting your well-being, and honoring our planet.
References:
Party Time – Just Naturally Healthy
The prevention and control the type-2 diabetes by changing lifestyle and dietary pattern
Fasting Increases Risk for Onset of Binge Eating and Bulimic Pathology: A 5-Year Prospective Study
The Psychology of Food Cravings: the Role of Food Deprivation – PMC
Environmental Impacts of Plant-Based Diets: How Does Organic Food Consumption Contribute to Environmental Sustainability?
Transitioning to sustainable healthy diets: A model-based and conceptual system thinking approach to optimized sustainable diet concepts in the United States
Sustainable food systems and nutrition in the 21st century: a report from the 22nd annual Harvard Nutrition Obesity Symposium – PMC
Vegetarian Diet: An Overview through the Perspective of Quality of Life Domains – PMC
A Look at Plant-Based Diets – PMC
Nutritional Intake and Biomarker Status in Strict Raw Food Eaters – PMC
The Hidden Dangers of Fast and Processed Food – PMC
How Much Paper is Used in One Day? | Record Nations
2018 Report on the State of the Global Paper Industry
How Many Trees Are Cut Down Each Year for Paper
The post Hosting a Holiday Party? Try These Healthy, Eco-Friendly Tips for a Stress-Free, Sustainable Celebration appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is holistic medicine safe to use?
Holistic Medicine is not as hazardous as you might think. However it does come with a few risks. Side effects that are most common include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and drowsiness as well as diarrhea, constipation and insomnia. These side effects must be understood and weighed against the potential benefits of alternative treatments like acupuncture.
However, there are no known cases of death due to the use of holistic medicines.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan.
Who uses alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid the use of harmful drugs or surgery.
- They believe natural remedies work more effectively.
- They prefer non-invasive treatment.
- They want to spend less money.
- They feel more secure using natural products
- They want to have more control over their own healthcare decisions.
- They are ready to take charge of their health.
- They desire a better environment.
- They desire less stress in the lives of others.
- They desire greater control over their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their kids to get a better education.
- They desire healthy food for their families and themselves.
- They need safe and effective medications.
What types of treatments aren’t considered holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is an approach to healing that looks at the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms. It helps people to recover from illness by promoting health and preventing disease.
Holistic medicine uses natural remedies such as herbs, homeopathy, and acupuncture instead of drugs and surgery.
Holistic medicine encompasses lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, meditation, yoga and breathing exercises.
Holistic medicine is sometimes called integrative medicine. This refers to the way that holistic medicine integrates all aspects (physical, mental and spiritual) into one comprehensive care plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.
Holistic doctors believe there is no one cause for every condition. Holistic doctors instead look at the whole person, including genetic factors and environmental influences, lifestyle choices, personal habits, and lifestyle choices.
Holistic practitioners place more emphasis on the mind, emotions and spirit than the body.
Holistic doctors work closely with patients to find the best solution for them.
What does holistic mean?
Holistic simply means holistic. Holistic is a way to look at the whole picture instead of just one aspect. It is difficult to do this because we tend to see things as individual parts.
Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. In reality, there are infinite shades of grey.
It is important to consider all angles when working on a project. Consider it from every side.
It is important to see how the pieces fit together. How does each of its components interact with one another?
Ask yourself why you are having trouble with a particular element. And don’t forget to consider the impact of any change you make.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal – Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine – PubMed
How To
What are you looking for in a qualified holistic practitioner?
How can you find a qualified doctor who is skilled in holistic medicine?
Only those who are experts in their field can be the best doctors. We are referring to holistic medicine in this instance. Doctors must be able to treat patients holistically. This includes treating the whole person and not just the symptoms. They must understand holistic health, and why you should see a holistic doctor.
Doctors must be well-versed in holistic health. They should also be familiar with complementary and other therapies (CAM), like acupuncture or chiropractic care.
Holistic health practitioners should also be able to diagnose your condition and explain the different treatments available to make an informed decision about your treatment options.
You should also ask if the doctor has certifications from professional organizations like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork or the American Holistic Medical Association. NBOHMCA offers certification in many areas including naturopathic medicine and acupuncture, homeopathy as well as clinical nutrition, herbal therapy, aromatherapy, and clinical nutrition.
Look through our directory to find a holistic doctor in your region. If one is not listed, you can search online to find a holistic doctor close by.
Ask your local hospital or doctor to verify if they offer holistic care.
You can also visit your local library for books and resources on holistic health.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Hosting a Holiday Party? Try These Healthy, Eco-Friendly Tips for a Stress-Free, Sustainable Celebration
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/lifestyle-2/hosting-a-holiday-party-try-these-healthy-eco-friendly-tips-for-a-stress-free-sustainable-celebration/
Published Date: Thu, 16 Nov 2023 00:17:31 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
Is holistic medicine safe to use?
Holistic Medicine is not as hazardous as you might think. However it does come with a few risks. Side effects that are most common include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and drowsiness as well as diarrhea, constipation and insomnia. These side effects must be understood and weighed against the potential benefits of alternative treatments like acupuncture.
However, there are no known cases of death due to the use of holistic medicines.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan.
Who uses alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid the use of harmful drugs or surgery.
- They believe natural remedies work more effectively.
- They prefer non-invasive treatment.
- They want to spend less money.
- They feel more secure using natural products
- They want to have more control over their own healthcare decisions.
- They are ready to take charge of their health.
- They desire a better environment.
- They desire less stress in the lives of others.
- They desire greater control over their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their kids to get a better education.
- They desire healthy food for their families and themselves.
- They need safe and effective medications.
What types of treatments aren’t considered holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is an approach to healing that looks at the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms. It helps people to recover from illness by promoting health and preventing disease.
Holistic medicine uses natural remedies such as herbs, homeopathy, and acupuncture instead of drugs and surgery.
Holistic medicine encompasses lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, meditation, yoga and breathing exercises.
Holistic medicine is sometimes called integrative medicine. This refers to the way that holistic medicine integrates all aspects (physical, mental and spiritual) into one comprehensive care plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.
Holistic doctors believe there is no one cause for every condition. Holistic doctors instead look at the whole person, including genetic factors and environmental influences, lifestyle choices, personal habits, and lifestyle choices.
Holistic practitioners place more emphasis on the mind, emotions and spirit than the body.
Holistic doctors work closely with patients to find the best solution for them.
What does holistic mean?
Holistic simply means holistic. Holistic is a way to look at the whole picture instead of just one aspect. It is difficult to do this because we tend to see things as individual parts.
Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. In reality, there are infinite shades of grey.
It is important to consider all angles when working on a project. Consider it from every side.
It is important to see how the pieces fit together. How does each of its components interact with one another?
Ask yourself why you are having trouble with a particular element. And don’t forget to consider the impact of any change you make.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal – Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine – PubMed
How To
What are you looking for in a qualified holistic practitioner?
How can you find a qualified doctor who is skilled in holistic medicine?
Only those who are experts in their field can be the best doctors. We are referring to holistic medicine in this instance. Doctors must be able to treat patients holistically. This includes treating the whole person and not just the symptoms. They must understand holistic health, and why you should see a holistic doctor.
Doctors must be well-versed in holistic health. They should also be familiar with complementary and other therapies (CAM), like acupuncture or chiropractic care.
Holistic health practitioners should also be able to diagnose your condition and explain the different treatments available to make an informed decision about your treatment options.
You should also ask if the doctor has certifications from professional organizations like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork or the American Holistic Medical Association. NBOHMCA offers certification in many areas including naturopathic medicine and acupuncture, homeopathy as well as clinical nutrition, herbal therapy, aromatherapy, and clinical nutrition.
Look through our directory to find a holistic doctor in your region. If one is not listed, you can search online to find a holistic doctor close by.
Ask your local hospital or doctor to verify if they offer holistic care.
You can also visit your local library for books and resources on holistic health.
