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Creating Healthier Stuffing Recipes

By Brandi Swieter 

Aside from the fact that National Stuffing Day arrives on November 21, the side dish is also commonly consumed during the holiday season. Stuffing tends to be full of fat and calories. This makes the savory option less than ideal for those looking to improve their health. A healthier stuffing is possible as long as individuals create their own and make some substitutions to the common offerings. 

Avoid Boxed Mixes

Boxed stuffing mixes contain far too much sodium. These types should be avoided. They require cooks to boil water with a scoop of added butter before adding in the mixed contents. The butter contributes largely to the calories and fat in the dish. Homemade versions made in the oven without butter are better to consume. 

Use Whole Grain Bread

When creating a homemade mix, whole grain bread is the right option. It's one of the healthiest versions on store shelves. For an even healthier selection, Ezekiel bread, rye bread, or oat bread are also possibilities. It may require a trip to the health food store to find these versions. 

Add Low-Sodium Broth

Stuffing recipes call for broth. This is where a lot of the sodium comes from. Add a low-sodium broth instead to reduce the amount and keep things as healthy as possible. An organic free range chicken broth is one of the best options. 

Include Fruit and Vegetables

Stuffing often involves meat, such as sausage. These are not the healthiest types. A stuffing with fruit and vegetables in the mix is a better option. An apple sage stuffing, for example, provides a good dose of vitamins. Use apples, sage, onions, and celery for a healthy mix. 

Take a Small Portion

Another way to reduce calories in the stuffing dish is to simply take less. People should only take a small portion on their plates. It allows them to get a taste of the food without having to overload on carbs, fat, or sodium. This also leaves room for plenty of other food options for a variety of flavors and choices. 

Stuffing is a favorite for many yet it adds lots of unnecessary calories and sodium to the meal. Creating a healthier stuffing recipe from scratch is the best solution for people wanting the side dish without all of the negative aspects. Boxed versions offer little in the way of nutrition except a bit of protein. Homemade types can provide vitamins, protein, whole grains, and more if the right ingredients are chosen.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Salem, N.H.

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