Festive foods for a low Gi celebration

Getting ready to entertain this festive season? No one wants to be deprived of all their holiday favourites or feel like the Christmas grinch. Eating well can also be healthy – just remember the basic principles of swapping rich and fatty high Gi foods for healthy low Gi options.

Even at Christmas time it’s important to try and follow a low Gi diet to look after your health. So, whether you just want to keep eating healthy, sustain energy levels or manage a specific health condition, choosing low Gi options is the best way to go these holidays.

Here are a few ideas to help celebrate the low Gi way, without forgoing the festivities.

Main course options: 

• Roast turkey breast, roast ham, roast sweet potato, parsnips, carrots, sweet corn and lower Gi potatoes– a traditional feast created with low Gi options
• Stuffing made with low Gi bread or traditional oats
• Honey and oregano roasted leg of lamb with vegetable roasties
• Pastry-free rice and veggie pie
• Any seafood (avoid deep fried or battered varieties)

Fresh side salads: 

• Fresh kale, avocado and pomegranate salad
• Vegetarian pearl couscous with roasted vegetables
• Rice and sweet corn salad with blueberries and pecans

Try these dessert options:

• Baked stuffed apples
• Berry bombs
• Honey roasted pears with chocolate fudge sauced and pecan sprinkle
• Pavlova with equal amounts of light whipped cream and low-fat plain yoghurt, topped with a range of seasonal fresh fruits including sliced berries, kiwi fruit, pear, bananas, grapes and passionfruit
• Cashew nut cream – to serve alongside any dessert