Healthy gift ideas for Christmas

Matti Daniels
Family and Consumer Sciences

Holiday feasting, snacking and partying could add extra weight that is difficult to shed in the new year. Many times around the holidays we give gifts of candies, cookies, pies and other baked goods.

While these items could be eaten in moderation, we also have the option of giving gifts that would improve the health of family members, friends and co-workers. As you consider gift giving this year, include gifts for people on your list that would help them increase their health.

Suggestions for healthy food related gifts include

Fruits – Give fresh fruits in a basket. Place some straw or crinkle paper at the bottom of a basket. Place a variety of fruits in the basket and wrap, tie a bow. Using under ripe fruits is best. Other basket ideas include:

Cheese, crackers, dried fruits and nuts wrapped similar to the fruit basket

Olive and flavored vinegars – add a loaf of whole wheat or other whole grain bread

Salsas and dips

Herb seasonings and rubs

Pasta basket – whole wheat pasta, spaghetti sauces, olive oil, dried parmesan cheese

Soup

Seeds and grains

Healthy non-food gifts

Gym and fitness class membership

Certificate for massages

Active family vacation

Clothes and gears for work-out

Action for Healthy Kids has some ideas for activities and gifts for your kids:

Make a healthy toolbox for kids. Give toys that can be used inside during inclement weather. Include balls, jump ropes, bubbles and chalk for hopscotch.

Embrace the cold. Snow toys, skis, sleds and skates make cold weather fun.

Make the most of screen time. Kids of all ages love motion-controlled video games, music video dance games and exercise DVDs.
For more information, contact the Whitley County Cooperative Extension Service at 549-1430; visit the office or email DL_CES_WHITLEY@EMAIL.UKY.EDU.