Nourishing snacks for Santa (and you)
Santa-approved snacks for the silly season
Every Christmas Eve, millions of children take part in the heart-warming tradition of leaving a treat to help Santa and his reindeer with their mammoth task of delivering gifts across the world.
For some families, this looks like a plate of cookies and a glass of milk for Santa and some crunchy carrots for the reindeer. This tradition has also evolved into a wonderful opportunity to talk about food, celebration and health in a way that highlights gratitude, connection and culture, rather than focusing on what not to eat.
Choosing snacks — without a sense of restriction or guilt — that are nourishing and delicious can be a special part of the festive fun.
We spoke to Professor Lauren Ball and PhD candidate Evie Gardiner from UQ’s Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing, who shared tips for choosing a nourishing snack for Santa (and you).
Celebrate variety, not perfection
Professor Ball suggests including a mix of fresh foods that include a variety of nourishing benefits for your Christmas entertaining menu and Santa’s plate.
“Foods packed with fibre, healthy fats and natural sweetness will ensure that Santa — or indeed any holiday guests — feel both satisfied and energised,” Professor Ball said.
“Fresh fruit and nuts are a great place to start, and you can get creative and mix almonds, pistachios and dried cranberries for a pop of colour.
"You could also make energy balls by combining rolled oats, nut butter and honey finished with a dust of cocoa.
“These are rich in fibre and unsaturated fats, which is the perfect fuel for a session of gift-giving.”
Gardiner suggests a different take on the traditional mince pie or shortbread cookie.
“Homemade oat cookies with cinnamon, nutmeg and a touch of maple syrup offer the familiar comfort of cookies or biscuits, but with a slower release of energy,” Gardiner said.
“Using oats instead of white flour adds texture and fibre, while the spices provide that festive aroma so many of us love.”
With snacks accounted for, it’s time to move on to beverages. How can we quench the thirst of a man who’s sleighing the day?
“Traditionally, milk (or even whiskey) is laid out on Christmas Eve, but Santa and his reindeer may enjoy a smoothie or a warm mug of chai with milk or a plant-based alternative,” Gardiner said.
“These drinks are naturally sweet and hydrating and can be made with the kids’ help on Christmas Eve before bed.”
Adobe Stock: Kiwi fruit Christmas tree
Adobe Stock: Kiwi fruit Christmas tree
Adobe Stock: Bliss Balls
Adobe Stock: Bliss Balls
A message of balance for kids
(and adults)
Professor Ball notes that leaving food out for Santa can encourage gentle conversations about how foods have different jobs in our bodies, and how enjoyment and nourishment can go hand in hand.
“Children often learn their attitudes toward food from the adults around them,” Professor Ball said.
“When we talk about food as joyful and inclusive, rather than ‘good’ or ‘bad’, we support a healthier relationship with food and eating — one that lasts far beyond the holidays.
“I don’t think Santa will really mind what’s on his plate on Christmas Eve.
“Celebrating the chance to connect and share food that is comforting, colourful and nourishing, is really what the holidays are all about.
“And let’s also not forget the carrots and water for the reindeer – they also need a nourishing snack for the long night ahead!”
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