As much as I enjoy the holidays and spending some quiet time with family and friends, the onslaught of well-intentioned albeit sugar-laden gifts can be overwhelming. Before you know it, the kitchen counters are cluttered with chocolates, candy, baked goods (fruit cake?!) and the usual gigantic popcorn tins. This is entirely too much temptation in such a short amount of time.
If you are earnest about what you feed your body for optimal health, you should also pass along the same message to your family and friends by giving gifts that epitomize your healthy lifestyle.
Putting together a small basket of healthy edibles is easy to customize and something that you can feel good about. Some items might include: fruit, nuts (you can lightly salt/season and roast raw nuts for a different flavor instead of the purchased seasoned nuts that are loaded with undesirable ingredients!), good quality extra virgin olive oil, organic dried fruits, mixture of spices, a favorite red wine, or even a jar of coconut oil or coconut butter.
Whole Foods has aisles full of organic products and grassfed meat - you'll be amazed what awesome items can be found and you can put together an incredible gift basket/bag. Why not plan a Paleo meal, buy all organic ingredients at Whole Foods, write down the recipe on some nice cardstock and place in a large serving bowl as an added gift - this is something I do frequently for homebound friends, but it will work for Christmas as well!
Tony Caputo's Market and Deli (www.caputosdeli.com) is a favorite of ours for good quality prosciutto, olive oils and other delectable items - it's a must stop for when we do our Christmas shopping.
Salt Lake Roasting Company (www.roasting.com) has a great selection of good quality coffee. You can buy 1/2 or 1 pound bags of whole beans or they will grind the beans to your desired specifications. This makes a great gift especially if given with a nice coffee mug for on-the-go mornings.
Food items are not the only gift ideas - a good book on healthy eating makes a great gift. Any of the Zone books, Mark Sisson's The Primal Blueprint, Gary Taubes Good Calories, Bad Calories, Michael Pollan The Omnivore's Dilemma are some good examples.
Lastly, you could always de-stress someone's holiday by giving them a massage/spa gift certificate and, if the recipient has young children, offer to watch their children as part of the gift!
Happy shopping!
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