ShopRite of Sparta’s new Registered Dietitian Samantha Cifelli knows it can be a challenge to eat nutritious meals around the holidays. That’s why she has devised five tips for healthy holiday eating.
During November, Cifelli has several special events planned, including a children’s cooking class at 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 20. Food demonstrations will take place in the store on Nov. 16, and Nov. 30, featuring recipes like pumpkin and spice energy bites, which are made with dates, pecans, oats, yogurt, canned pumpkin, pumpkin spice, chia seeds and sea salt.
Cifelli also offers an array of ongoing free nutrition services. She provides store tours and cooking demonstrations along with complimentary one-on-one counseling services for customers and associates. She can help customers navigate the aisles to help them better understand food labels.
“Ms. Cifelli and all of ShopRite’s Registered Dietitians can help consumers and associates stick to healthy eating habits, even during the holidays,” said Natalie Menza-Crowe, MS, RD, Director of Health & Wellness at ShopRite. “We’re excited that Ms. Cifelli has joined our team of dietitians and will be helping ShopRite consumers through the holidays to make sure they are eating healthy and nutritious meals.”
For more information, email Samantha.CifelliRD@wakefern.com, or call ShopRite of Sparta at: 973-729-6900. Shoppers can visit ShopRite.com/welleveryday to see her full calendar of events.
As part of ShopRite’s in-store dietitian team, Cifelli is one of over 100 Registered Dietitians serving ShopRite customers in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maryland and Delaware.
ShopRite of Sparta is located at 18 North Village Boulevard, Sparta, NJ 07871. The store is open Monday to Saturday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Cifelli’s “Better For You” Holiday Eating Tips include:
Load up on veggies.
Vegetables are high in fiber and other nutrients, but low in calories and fat. “Consume a leafy salad prior to your main meal, and aim to fill at least half of your dinner plate with non-starchy vegetables to prevent over-eating at your holiday feast,” said Cifelli.
Don’t come hungry. “Though you may feel inclined to skip meals prior to holiday gatherings, this is likely to lead to overeating. Start your day with a balanced breakfast, such as oats with strawberries and peanut butter, and prior to leaving for your holiday party, consume a protein and fiber rich snack, such as hummus with whole grain crackers or unsalted nuts with a piece of fruit,” she said.
Use a salad plate. Using a smaller plate can help you to consume smaller portions. Focus on filling your plate with lean protein and vegetables. If you are still hungry, wait 15 minutes before going for seconds.
Share dessert. Holiday desserts are high in fat, added sugar, and calories. Try sharing your favorite dessert with a friend or family member, or opt for fresh fruit.
Bring a dish. Try making a “better for you” holiday dish to bring to your holiday gathering. Mashed cauliflower, roasted seasonal vegetables with olive oil and rosemary, or a fruit platter with Greek yogurt dip are all great choices.
