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Rita Eusanio RD, LDN

Holiday Treats and Hormonal Harmony: How Women Over 45 Can Have Both

Updated: Dec 18, 2024


The holidays are just around the corner, and while this season brings joy, family traditions, and delicious food, it can also feel overwhelming—especially if we’re juggling stress, fatigue, and trying to manage our weight. For many of us over 45, this time of year feels like a tug-of-war between wanting to enjoy the festivities and staying on track with our health and wellness goals.


In my family, the holidays were all about indulgence—and for years, I felt like I had to “make up for it” by dieting or cutting back later. But what I’ve learned, both personally and professionally, is that the holidays don’t have to be an all-or-nothing experience. It’s about finding that sweet spot of balance: enjoying the foods we love while making choices that still support our health and well-being.


So here’s the great news: we can indulge in the sweetness of the season without feeling guilty or derailing our progress. In fact, with the right choices, we can support our energy, mood, and hormones—helping us feel our best.


To make this easier, I’ve created a collection of Twelve Hormone-Friendly Holiday Treats. These recipes are perfect for navigating hormonal changes, weight gain, or the exhaustion that often creeps in at this time of year. They’re simple, delicious, and designed to work with our body, not against it—so we can enjoy the season with joy and intention, without the guilt or overwhelm.


Why Hormone-Friendly Desserts?

When it comes to hormonal health, it’s not just about what we eat—it’s how foods impact our body. By focusing on hormone-friendly ingredients, we can enjoy desserts that satisfy our cravings while supporting balanced blood sugar, energy levels, and mood.


Here’s a sneak peek at how these treats help:


  • Steady Blood Sugar: Using sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia, or even a touch of maple syrup paired with healthy fats, helps avoid the sugar spikes and crashes that worsen stress and fatigue.

  • Mood-Boosting Antioxidants: Dark chocolate (over 72% cacao) is rich in antioxidants that fight inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can worsen fatigue and hormonal imbalances.

  • Hormone-Supporting Fats: Nuts and seeds provide the building blocks our body needs to produce and balance hormones, while also keeping us satisfied.


However, if there’s a dessert you truly love—a family recipe or a treat you only enjoy a couple of times a year—go ahead and enjoy it! Traditions are meant to be celebrated. Just have it right after your meal to help balance the impact on blood sugars and make the experience even more satisfying.


And remember, these desserts are still treats—so it’s all about balance and moderation! Enjoy them as part of your celebrations, knowing that you’re making choices that support your health while still enjoying the flavors of the season.


Wishing you a holiday season filled with joy, balance, and sweetness!


And let’s keep thriving together with small changes for big results!


Let’s Thrive Together!

And if you’re looking for more ways to stay vibrant, balanced, and fully present through the holidays, I’d love to invite you to a complimentary Thrive Beyond 45 Strategy Session. Together, we’ll create a plan that supports your hormones, honors your body, and helps you thrive without guilt or overwhelm.



 

Grab Your Free Recipe Booklet!


Twelve Hormone-Friendly Holiday Treats

This season, indulge in festive desserts without compromising your health goals.


Our free recipe booklet features:

  • Simple, delicious recipes to balance energy, mood, and hormones.

  • Tips for guilt-free indulgence during the holidays.

  • Ingredients that work with your body to keep you feeling your best.


Sign-up to Download






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1 Comment


mmurphysmile1
Dec 20, 2024

Great suggestions!!! And I've downloaded the Twelve Hormone-Friendly Holiday Treats recipe booklet. Looking forward to seeing what's inside. Thank you 🎄🎅

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