Written by: Nicole Pazdziorko, RDN, LDN, Food City Registered Dietitian

When you hear the word Easter, it probably conjures up images of pastel-colored baskets filled with chocolate and jelly-beans rather than health and wellness. While I wouldn’t suggest swapping out chocolate eggs for a basket of kale, the good news is that fun foods can be enjoyed while also keeping on track with your wellness goals. All foods can fit in a healthful eating plan, including the sweets that come with the Easter celebration. Just like any other day, balance and moderation is the key! To make the holiday more balanced, consider the following tips:

- Exercise. How do chickens stay fit? They eggs-ercise! Prioritize movement for the whole family by planning an outdoor Easter egg hunt and going for a post-dinner walk. 

- Eat Breakfast. Don’t attempt to “save your calories” for later by meal skipping, as this plan usually backfires. Having something breakfast can actually prevent overeating later. 

- Slow Down. Slowing down and eating more mindfully will allow you to enjoy your food more and will likely require less of it to feel satisfied.

- Enjoy in Moderation. Enjoy small portions of your favorite sweet treat on Easter but avoid leaving bags around the house to graze on all week.  

- Add Colorful Vegetables. In spring, we have an abundance of seasonal produce that can be added to a brunch platter or to your dinner plate. Tender greens, asparagus, carrots, and radishes are a few ways to add some natural color and make it easier to make vegetables the majority of your plate. Seasonal vegetables can be added to breakfast casseroles or to puff pastry for a spring vegetable tart.  

- Pair with Protein. Protein can help you to stay full and stabilize blood sugar levels to avoid the post-meal “crash,” so be sure to include a source at all meals. Boiled eggs, grilled meats, lamb, ham, or roast turkey are a few great protein choices for Easter!

- Find non-food items to celebrate with. Fill your children’s Easter baskets with fun non-food items in addition to their candy-filled eggs. Glow sticks, books, a new water bottle, Mad Libs, craft kits and brain teasers are a few fun ideas.  

- Make Easter-Themed Healthy Snacks. Carrots in “dirt” and bunny-shaped fruits and vegetables with dip are a few fun Easter-themed snacks to have front and center.