Feb 13 2009
Healthy Alternatives for Valentine’s Day

The trick is to give something healthy that is still fun to receive. Of course, a gift can always be non-edible. However, everyone likes a special goodie to eat on certain occasions. So, even if you partake in a delicious chocolate brownie, don’t beat yourself up about it. A once-in-a-while treat is good for the disposition and general mental and emotional well being. But, when you try these ideas, you may feel like you are getting or giving a special treat that’s also healthy for Valentine’s Day.
Edible Arrangements: They are cute and who doesn’t like some sort of fresh fruit. You can purchase these fun fruit gifts or you can make your own. Here’s a video that shows how.
Whole Wheat Pancakes: Make healthier pancakes in heart shapes. Kids really love these. It’s not hard. Place two small dollops of pancake batter next to each other and then pull the batter down to a point at the bottom. Try serving them covered in no-sugar-added applesauce with a small bit of whipped cream on top and a piece of fruit stuck in it. Freshly ground peanut butter is another option with sliced bananas on top.
Muffins and Cookies: Personally, I love muffins, especially healthy ones. I make oatmeal muffins quite often and exchange half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Here is a site with healthy (low sugar) recipes - cranberry muffins, applesauce cookies and brownies.
Handmade Cards: I love to get a handmade gift. It’s so much more personal and considered just for me. Handmade cards are not difficult to make and if you have the creative gene, once you get started you won’t be able to stop. If it’s too late to get started on handmade valentine cards this year, consider learning and practicing for next year.






Good ideas. Why do people like to eat food that is not good for them?