'Tis the Season to be Giving: A Healthy Holiday Gift Guide

Friday, December 8, 2023

by Tiffany Vo, Nutritional Sciences Graduate Student, UGA Dining Nutrition Clerical

The holiday season is here! While it is a joyous time for many, the pressure of gift-giving and the hunt for the perfect present may leave you feeling stressed and confused. The gift must be practical to avoid collecting dust in the back of a closet, but it must also show that you know and care for recipient. This holiday gift guide aims to help you find gifts that best suit your loved ones and support their health and well-being.

For the one who needs more sleep

Adequate rest is important for cellular recovery and optimal brain function. While the number of hours required every night may vary from person to person, it is essential to get sufficient, peaceful sleep to perform at your best!

$ Your favorite brand of Bedtime or Chamomile tea

$$ Satin night mask

$$$ Weighted blanket

For the one who has a green thumb

Gardening can be a rewarding way to increase one’s fruit and vegetable intake while meeting their physical activity recommendations. 

$ Their favorite seeds to prepare for the upcoming season

$$ Harvest basket to collect the fruits of their labor

$$$ Personalized gardening tools

For the one who’s into fitness

For adults, 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day can help increase energy levels and reduce the risk of chronic disease! It is also recommended to perform moderate- to high-intensity muscle-strengthening activity at least two days of the week.

$ Fitness journal 

$$ Comfy workout gear 

$$$ Massage gun to relax post-workout

*BONUS* Take them to a fitness class at the Ramsey Student Center with passes as low as $7/person.

For the one who has a busy schedule

We understand—people are busy nowadays. Eating a healthy, balanced meal is essential to being able to tackle a busy schedule —whether it’s home-cooked meals or nutritious meals served at a restaurant!

$ Gift card to their favorite healthy restaurant

$$ Crockpot (for hands-off cooking and minimal cleanup!)

$$$ Meal delivery kit subscription

For the one who forgets to drink water

Drinking enough water helps maintain body temperature and lubricate joints. The amount of water we need daily actually varies by person. A general rule is about eight glasses per day, but paying attention to your thirst can help you know if it’s enough for you!

$ Water flavoring packets (like crystallized citrus packets – look for options with no added sugars or artificial sweeteners)

$$ Reusable drinking straws (e.g., BPA-free bendy; metal) to make drinking water more fun

$$$ Reusable water bottle/cup

For the one who’s learning how to cook

Making meals at home can often be more nutritious and affordable than going out to eat. You can control how much added sugar, fat, and sodium are in your meals, and they will be better suited to your personal preferences!

$ Beginner’s kitchen utensil set

$$ Food thermometer (for the uncertain chef)

$$$ Your favorite cookbook (a gift for you and them!)

*BONUS* Gift them a cooking class with the Health Center’s Nutrition Kitchen for just $5-$10.

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to be stressful. Hopefully, this gift guide inspires you to find just the right thing for the right person. Happy holidays, and happy gifting!