One of my favorite mindset hacks for staying on track with healthy eating habits during the holidays is to focus on how you can be intentional about incorporating healthy foods into your week rather than on pre-shaming yourself for holiday indulgences. 

This probably won’t surprise you to hear me say this, but I am NOT a fan of skipping meals to “save calories” before a big holiday meal. Instead, front-load your day with some veggies and protein so you show up clear-headed and ready to mindfully enjoy yourself rather than ravenous and primed to gobble up whatever you can get your hands on first. 

Another thing to keep in mind, rather than spiraling into an “I’ve blown it” mindset and eating crap the whole season long, on days you don’t have celebrations, make an effort to eat lots of nourishing foods to keep your energy up, immune system firing, and your weight in a stable place. Exercise helps too with all of these—plus, it’s a great stress-reliever when you’re not feeling so happy-merry. 

I love soups, smoothies, and salads for easily getting those nutrients into your body this time of year. 

When I first tested this recipe for a post on the Valley Breast Center Insta, I loved it so much, I knew I wanted to share a version with you too. This Gingerbread Green Smoothie is perfect for Thanksgiving morning to start your day with veggies and plant-based protein so you don’t show up starving.  Honestly, though, this is delicious all year round.  I’ve been enjoying it since the summer! 

Gingerbread Green Smoothie 

Serves 1 

Ingredients: 

• 1-1.5 cups unsweetened plant milk or water 
• 1 teaspoon blackstrap molasses (optional) 
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen) 
• 1 cup frozen cauliflower 
• ½ a frozen banana  
• ¼ cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon nut or seed butter 
• 1 tablespoon ground flax 
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon  
• ¼ teaspoon dried ginger 
• ¼ teaspoon dried cloves  
• Dash of sea salt 
• Optional: 1 scoop of unsweetened or vanilla protein powder (I love this one)  

Directions:  

Layer ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.  

Pour into a glass and enjoy.