With New Year's Eve just around the corner, many revelers are starting to think about their holiday feasts. Traditionally, this festive occasion brings with it indulgent meals filled with hearty dishes and sweet treats. Yet, health experts are urging party-goers to think twice about their culinary choices this year.
Viktor Tutelyan, the chief dietician of the Russian Ministry of Health, emphasizes the importance of enjoying the holiday without overindulging. "The New Year is the most important holiday; it occurs once a year. Therefore, one can eat whatever they like but moderately. You need to stop on time,” he advises. This message rings true especially for those who may have chronic health conditions, for whom overe eating can lead to adverse health effects.
Tutelyan suggests not to go overboard with pre-holiday restrictions, stating, "If you restrict yourself too much before the celebrations, you are more likely to overeat later on. So, eat moderately before the New Year." His balanced approach encourages enjoyment rather than stringent adherence, allowing flavors to be savored without guilt.
Meanwhile, Antonina Starodubova, the chief dietician of the Moscow Health Department, offers practical advice on how to create healthier alternatives to traditional holiday dishes. For example, she suggests replacing mayonnaise—often found slathered on salads like Olivier—with yogurt or sour cream. “Instead of mayonnaise, it’s possible to replace it with sour cream,” she says, highlighting the benefits of lighter dressings.
Starodubova also recommends substituting high-fat meats with leaner options, such as chicken or turkey. Instead of heavily salted herring found in Herring Under Fur Coat, opt for lightly salted fish. “Using fresh ingredients not only reduces calorie counts but also enhances the festive atmosphere,” she explains.
Within the festive spread, fruits and vegetables play a pivotal role; they not only brighten up the table but also pack nutritional benefits. "The more vegetables and fruits on the table, the healthier the feast—but they should ideally be fresh or turned to salads with nuts and berries," adds Starodubova. This aligns with the increasing awareness around the importance of plant-based diets, especially during celebrations when it's easy to forget about nutrition.
Beverage choices matter too, especially when festivities often involve alcohol. Alina Sazonova, deputy chief physician for medical care at the Narcology Center of Moscow's Health Department, advises moderation. “The safest drink for the New Year’s table is dry white wine. One or two glasses per night,” she advises, underscoring the potential risks associated with drinking excessively at celebrations.
With these recommendations, it's clear how the festive table can be both enjoyable and health-conscious this New Year’s Eve. Instead of continuing the tradition of calorie-heavy dishes, why not embrace fresh flavors and vibrant colors? Starodubova encourages festive creativity: “You can be imaginative with salad presentations and include fresh ingredients to impress your guests.”
Combining traditional foods with healthier substitutes ensures the table will be full without sacrificing well-being. By preparing dishes rich with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, celebrants can savor the New Year’s Eve experience without the regret of overindulgence.
Leaving room for joy alongside responsibility embodies the spirit of the holiday. This year's festivities can be not just celebratory but also nourishing. So as the countdown to the New Year begins, take this opportunity to redefine what “holiday food” means—making it healthy, fulfilling, and still packed with flavors.
Say goodbye to the weight of food guilt and say hello to festive plates brimming with delightful yet nutritious dishes. Cheers to healthier choices this New Year’s Eve!
