Sis, December is the month where food holds memories, warmth, and connection. But as Mature Melanin Mavens over 50, we’re choosing dishes that love us back — meals that comfort and nourish, warm us up and support our bodies, treat us and protect our blood sugar and heart health.
Let’s talk about December eating that feels good, tastes good, and keeps our beautiful melanated bodies thriving.
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1. Cozy Meals That Warm You Without Weighing You Down
We want comfort without the crash, the bloating, or the sugar spikes.
Build your December meals around warm, nutrient-dense bowls like:
Turkey or chicken chili
Spiced lentil stew
Vegetable-packed soups (tomato basil, butternut squash, cabbage, or broccoli cheddar made light)
Stir fry bowls with lots of greens + protein
Oven-roasted veggies with garlic, herbs, and olive oil
These meals keep you full, energized, and balanced through chilly days.
LTK Kitchen Favorites:
Our Place Dutch Oven (perfect for soups & stews)
Staub Cast Iron Braiser
Ninja Air Fryer (for roasted veggies and quick meals)
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2. Festive Flavors That Support Menopause, Blood Sugar, and Heart Health
December is all about spices — and sis, these spices do more than add flavor. They support inflammation, blood pressure, and hormones.
Add these into your meals daily:
Cinnamon – stabilizes blood sugar
Ginger – soothes digestion and inflammation
Turmeric – great for joints and hot flashes
Cloves – antioxidant powerhouse
Garlic & basil – heart-loving and flavorful
Red pepper flakes – metabolism booster
Your holiday dishes can be delicious and healing.
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3. Lighter Holiday Favorites That Still Taste Like Home
You don’t have to give up the classics — you can remix them.
Try this:
Mashed cauliflower + potatoes (lighter, still creamy)
Air-fried chicken or fish (less oil, same crisp)
Green beans with garlic + almonds
Sweet potatoes baked, not candied
Collards cooked with smoked turkey instead of ham hocks
Sis, you’ll still taste the tradition — just without the heaviness.
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4. Drinks That Keep You Cozy and Healthy
December drinks can be comforting without being loaded with sugar.
Here are Maven-approved sips:
Warm Drinks
Ginger tea
Cinnamon spice tea
Turmeric latte with oat milk
Peppermint tea after meals
Low-sugar hot chocolate made with dark cocoa
Cold Drinks
Cranberry spritzer (unsweetened cranberry + sparkling water + lime)
Cucumber mint water
Light green juice (cucumber, celery, green apple, lemon)
Holiday cocktail swap:
Try a wine spritzer instead of a full glass of wine — still festive, half the sugar.
LTK Drink Essentials:
Simple Modern 40-oz Tumbler
Breville Milk Frother (turns any tea into a cozy latte!)
Glass carafe set for infused waters
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5. Smart Snacking to Beat Cravings
December is when temptation shows up everywhere — work, church, family gatherings, even the grocery store.
Smart Maven-approved snacks:
Greek yogurt with cinnamon
Hummus + bell peppers
A handful of almonds or pumpkin seeds
Apple slices with sunbutter
A small square of dark chocolate
These keep your energy stable and curb sugar cravings.
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6. Create a Holiday Plate That Loves You Back
When you’re at a party, church potluck, or family dinner, try this simple plate strategy:
1. Fill half the plate with veggies
2. Add a palm-sized protein
3. Choose one or two “treat” foods you truly love
4. Eat slowly and sip water between bites
It’s not about restriction — it’s about feeling good after the meal, too.
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7. December Meal Ideas for the Maven Lifestyle
Here are some easy, delicious December menus for your ladies to try:
Quick Breakfasts
Oatmeal with cinnamon, berries, and chia
Veggie omelet with avocado
Protein smoothie with almond milk
Simple Dinners
Baked salmon + roasted Brussels sprouts
Turkey chili + mixed greens
Chicken stir fry with broccoli + ginger
Weekend Treats
Sweet potato pancakes (made lighter!)
Baked apple slices with cinnamon
Air-fried chicken wings with herbs
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8. A Maven’s December Food Mindset
Here’s what we’re embracing this month:
✨ Eat for energy, not guilt
✨ Choose warmth, nourishment, and balance
✨ Enjoy treats in moderation without shame
✨ Prioritize foods that support our hormones and hearts
✨ Sip slow, savor the season, and love on yourself
Your December eating should feel joyful, not complicated.
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Final Word, Sis
You deserve meals that comfort your spirit, nourish your body, and fit the woman you are today. December is the perfect month to cook with intention, sip mindfully, and treat yourself kindly.
Remember:
✨ You can honor tradition and protect your health.
✨ You can indulge without overdoing it.
✨ You can enjoy the holiday and still feel vibrant.
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