Balance Around the Holiday Table

A satisfying holiday meal doesn't have to follow strict rules. It's about making room for the foods you look forward to all year while building a plate that offers variety and balance.

November marks both the start of the holiday season and National Diabetes Month, a timely reminder that balanced eating matters year-round. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 800 million people worldwide are living with diabetes. One simple way to support blood sugar management is to pair carbohydrates with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. This recipe brings all three together with protein-rich farmer's cheese, almonds, and fiber-rich Brussels sprouts and cauliflower.

Vegetable-forward sides like this one complement traditional favorites such as potatoes, stuffing, and rolls. Starting your meal with vegetables can also help increase fiber intake and support fullness, while making room for the full holiday spread.

Rather than focusing on foods to eliminate, think about what you can add to your plate to support balance. There's room for both the foods that nourish you and the ones that make the holidays meaningful. After all, enjoyment is part of a healthy relationship with food, too.

Did You Know?

Farmer’s cheese is a fresh cheese traditionally made by separating curds from whey. Unlike aged cheeses, it has a mild, tangy flavor and a soft, crumbly texture that makes it easy to blend into creamy sauces and spreads. Its protein content varies by product, so check the label for specifics. It can also contain probiotic cultures, depending on the brand and how it is made.