Finding flavor in tradition and tomorrow
November 25, 2025By: Lindsey Robinson
Categories: Nutrition
The holiday season can be one of the most nostalgic times of the year. There are as many ways to create new holiday happenings as there are to honor the old.
While all families have special, unique traditions, the one most of us seem to share is gathering around the table for a delicious meal. Food has an emotional component. If we try to deny that emotional connection or talk ourselves out of it, we’re just kidding ourselves.
So let’s embrace the nostalgic element of food. Lean into that pumpkin pie you’ve been savoring since you were little. Eat the stuffing that still tastes just how grandma made it. But consider building new traditions that will allow you to enjoy those favorite foods without guilt.
My family goes on a 2-3 mile hike every Thanksgiving morning. I understand not everyone wants to walk that far. It’s OK to start small. Walk a few blocks around the neighborhood, but don’t make this a one-time activity. Walk several times a week and you’ll be amazed by how far your next Thanksgiving Day hike will take you.
Another family tradition is to play football outside after the meal. This helps with portion control since no one wants to feel stuffed while running after the ball. Just remember the food's not going anywhere. It will still be there, ready for a (sensible) second round.
Holiday baking is another popular tradition. It is certainly my favorite. I spend the day with my mom and a neighbor making chocolate-dipped peanut butter balls, chocolate-dipped Oreos – we like chocolate, OK? – frosted sugar cookies and more. Each year, we add one new treat and deliver the goodies in festive tins.
For my family, the fun is creating, not consuming. If you enjoy eating your goodies, it’s not a problem. The sites Eating Bird Food, The Food Network and Delish have scores of recipes that will keep your tummy off the naughty list while fooling your taste buds.
It’s easy to wind up with piles of sweets after a few rounds of baking or visits from neighbors. Try to give some to visitors, but if you still have too much, it’s OK to throw out what’s left. In the long run, you’re not wasting food, you’re creating boundaries for a healthier you and that’s always a wise trade-off.
Finally, one tradition you want to avoid is starving yourself leading up to the big meal. My dad does this. He goes all day without eating so he can “save room” for the main course. The truth is, he’s not saving anything. What he’s really doing is letting his blood sugar drop which makes him hungry. He’s better off eating a banana, peanut butter or cheese and crackers.
Food is so much more than fuel. We have taste buds for a reason. This time of year, we especially want to enjoy that deep-seated connection with foods from the past. But look to the future as well. The balance is what keeps traditions alive while making room for new memories.
