Health News
Healthy gift ideas for the holidays
Every holiday season, people ask me for healthy gift ideas. Sounds simple, but it's not. You want your healthy gifts to be perceived as thoughtful — not thoughtless. (I mean who wants to get a diet book and be reminded that you're carrying around extra pounds?)
So, here it goes — my top 10 list of healthy gift ideas:
1. Water bottle. Look for the snazzy metal kind that is free of chemicals, such as bisphenol A. A metal water bottle can be used again and again — and provides a healthy alternative to the ever-present temptation of sugary drinks.
2. Whole-grain cornucopia. Fill a basket with packages of whole grains, such as wild or brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, steel-cut oats and couscous. Tuck in recipes for soups or other tasty dishes. We all need to eat more of the "rough stuff."
3. Walnuts. Walnuts contain omega-3 fat, which benefits the heart. They may also help with cancer protection, memory preservation, sleep improvement and bone health. It only takes about 20 walnuts a day to reap the benefits; more than that can mean calorie overload.
4. Herbs. Give seeds and pots so recipients can grow their own herbs. It doesn't get more local than that! Herbs can be used in place of salt in many dishes — a healthy way to reduce blood pressure and please taste buds.
5. Lunch tote. These thermal bags are really in and a fun reminder of school days. Friends and family can pack healthy fare and save calories and money. If you want something more exotic, search out bento boxes.
6. Assorted teas. This antioxidant rich beverage is available bagged or loose. Pick green, black or herbal, or some of each. For a finishing touch, add a tea strainer or infuser.
7. Pedometer. The newer ones not only count steps, they also connect to computers and have software to calculate calories burned and estimate fat loss. Some even allow your data to "web walk" popular trails.
8. Compost bin. Gardeners will appreciate receiving these cute indoor scrap keepers, which are an easy way collect peelings, grounds and other food items that ordinarily go down the disposal or in the trash.
9. Steamer basket or electric steamer. Steaming is an easy and healthy way to prepare vegetables and other foods. For fun, tuck in a recipe for Japanese dumplings or steamed fish.
10. Chocolate. A sure win. Remember that the healthiest chocolate is at least 70 percent cocoa, so check labels. With this gift, less is more. It doesn't take much — about 1.5 ounces a day (52 grams) — to enjoy chocolate's health benefits.
Thoughts? Other suggestions for this list of healthy gift ideas?
Happy, healthy holidays to you all!
-- Jennifer Nelson, M.S., R.D. and Katherine Zeratsky, R.D.
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