Embrace a Healthy Feast with These Thanksgiving Tips!
As the annual celebration of Thanksgiving approaches, the eagerness to partake in the indulgence of our favorite traditional dishes comes along with it. The seasonal worry of potential weight gain during the holiday season also arises. Many dread the seemingly unavoidable 1-3lb increment of the holiday weight, which tends to stick around. (1)
Here is the Good NEWS! A festive Thanksgiving doesn’t mean you have to compromise your weight or thrust aside your healthy habits. A few simple tweaks and adjustments can make your traditional Thanksgiving spread more health-friendly and less guilt-ridden. Let’s dump the obsession and make Thanksgiving thoroughly enjoyable again!
Here are some tips to make this possible:
Stay Active & Get Moving.Stay active on Thanksgiving Day and through the week. A stroll or a workout before your Thanksgiving meal not only keeps you fit but also revs up your metabolism for the feast ahead!
Don’t Skip the First Meal. It’s tempting to ‘save up’ on calories for the much-awaited Thanksgiving meal, but starting your day with a healthy, wholesome breakfast gives your appetite better control. Keep those ‘hangry’ feelings at bay with a balanced mix of protein, complex carbs, and fats. (1)(2)
Plan Ahead. Forethought is your ally. If you’re responsible for the Thanksgiving meal or contributing a dish, consider healthier alternatives to traditional high-fat, high-sugar recipes. A little reduction here and there without affecting the taste can save you from unnecessary, added calories.
If you are making sweet potato casserole, reduce the amount of sugar in the sweet potato filling. The sweet potatoes already have a natural sweetness, and you will be putting a sugary topping on top, so really no reason to pile it on in the filling. Try using fat-free chicken or vegetable broth to baste the turkey, make gravy, and on sautéing. Reduce the amount of butter you add as well. You can also try plain yogurt in creamy dips and casseroles.
Healthier Holiday choices are white meat turkey (baked/roasted), snack on veggies or fruit, choose plain or roasted veggies, roasted or baked sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes (watch the gravy), and pumpkin pie.
Don’t Get Overstuffed-Thanksgiving tables are filled with an abundant amount of traditional family favorites. Before you fill your plate sky-high, familiarize yourself with what’s on the menu before you heap your plate. Choose your favorites and dish out sensible portions of your favorite foods. Let’s leave being stuffed to the turkey, shall we?
Savor the Flavors. Relish your meal, one bite at a time. This not only enhances your dining experience but also prevents overeating. Enjoy the meal, but make sure you are eating slowly and mindful. There’s a way to savor it and not overdo it.
Give a Reset on Seconds. I know this will be hard, but try to resist the temptation to return for a second helping. Don’t worry; I am not saying you can not enjoy your favorite delicious foods. If possible, try not to refill your plate for a second round. This not only saves you from overeating but also ensures there’s enough left for everyone to relish in the following day’s leftovers!
Drink Smart. It is easy to drink up calories in no time quickly. Calorie-intensive drinks can sneakily add up to your intake. Opt for a glass of wine or dilute the mixers if you favor cocktails. Rotate alcoholic drinks with water or sparkling water to stay hydrated.
Set Realistic Goals. Don’t expect to completely avoid your family favorites. It’s the holiday season – a time for celebration and joy! Remember, the aim is to enjoy quality time with loved ones, not to fret over what’s being served.
If you happen to overindulge, don’t be too hard on yourself. Just revert to your regular healthy eating and activity pattern. Remember, you’re in control! You’ve got this.
Should you need assistance with eating healthily and maintaining a robust, healthier lifestyle, I’m here to help! Get in touch TODAY to explore a healthier version of YOU!