Christmas is just around the corner, and Santa can sometimes have a bad habit of filling stockings with sugary, artificial-dye-and-preservative-laden treats. If you'd like to avoid a post-Christmas sugar hangover or weakened immune system, try these suggestions for healthier stocking stuffers!
Fruit
Oranges are in season, and they are packed with Vitamin C, antioxidants and bioflavonoids. We've all heard the expression "an apple a day keeps the doctor away", and it's true! Apples are full of fiber, enzymes, and pectin, all of which help support proper digestion. Bananas are a good source of potassium and magnesium. Or, you could go with a more exotic but also seasonal fruit such as pomegranate or persimmon.
Nuts
Did you know that brazil nuts are a great source of selenium, which supports healthy thyroid function? Or that walnuts are high in brain-supporting essential fatty acids? Nuts can be a good source of fiber and protein, and each variety of nut has a different nutrition profile, benefiting the body in different ways!
Toothbrush
Oral hygiene is closely linked to physical health. A new toothbrush can be a great way to encourage healthy brushing habits. Give a bamboo toothbrush to your loved ones this year, and you'll sleep peacefully knowing that you're also making a small difference for the Earth as well!
Gift Cards
Adults and kids alike love a gift card to their favorite store to spend as they please. You could make your own gift certificate for an experience, such as a trip to the zoo or a coupon book for your children that include things like "stay up 20 minutes later than bedtime" or "trip to the library", etc... Or you could give a gift certificate for a service, such as a haircut, manicure, massage, chiropractic adjustment, or Holistic Health Consultation (yes, we offer gift certificates!).
Reusable Water Bottle
A good quality water bottle or insulated tumbler is a great gift for everyone on your list. Not only will your loved ones drink more water, they'll be doing it in style! Make sure to buy only BPA-free bottles- try glass or stainless steel instead of plastic!
Healthy Snacks
We know, it can be hard to imagine Christmas without candies and treats. If candy is part of your Christmas traditions, try to find healthier substitutes. Give a xylitol-sweetened gum, stevia-sweetened chocolates, or a homemade sugar-free treat like granola bars or fat bombs.
Whatever you choose to put in your stocking, we hope it brings joy to everyone on Christmas morning!
Did we miss anything healthy that your little elves would love to see in their stocking on Christmas morning? Leave us a comment below!
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