Let’s face it, Thanksgiving is primarily centered around food. Of course there’s a deeper meaning behind the holiday, but our celebrations generally focus on gravy-laden turkey, buttery mashed potatoes, stuffing, and a healthy dose of sweet pumpkin pie. Delicious? Absolutely! Easy on the waistline? Not so much. To help, we’ve listed a few tips to help you have a healthy Thanksgiving without sacrificing all of your favorite Turkey Day eats.
Healthy Thanksgiving Tip #1
Eat before the big meal. Instead of skipping breakfast to “make room” for the extra calories, stick to your normal eating routine. Showing up to the big feast famished with a rumbling stomach will surely lead to over-eating.
Healthy Thanksgiving Tip #2
Strategize your meal beforehand. Think of your absolute favorite foods, and decide which ones are worth the indulgence and which ones aren’t. This way you’re not depriving yourself of your favorite holiday eats, and you’re making a conscious effort to control the amount of food you eat. If you happen to spoon up a dish that didn’t taste as delectable as you had imagined, skip it. Instead, go for a different fave – there’s no sense wasting calories on something that isn’t satisfying.
Healthy Thanksgiving Tip #3
Make a choice between alcohol and sweets. They’re both filled with sugar and calories, so pick a singular indulgence.
Healthy Thanksgiving Tip #4
When it’s time to dish up, use a smaller plate. The size of your plate affects how much food you put on it. Using a smaller plate is an easy way to limit the amount of food you take.
Healthy Thanksgiving Tip #5
Keep yourself hydrated. Throughout the day, sip water. Holding that glass of water will keep your hands busy so you’re not tempted to snag the lonely drumstick still left on the table. If you choose that alcohol is going to be your choice of the day over sugar, alternate glasses of water with alcohol or other caloric beverages.
Healthy Thanksgiving Tip #6
Socialize with your friends and family away from the food. If you’re trying hard not to overeat on Thanksgiving, keep yourself busy away from the food, before and after dinner. You know how the old adage goes, “Out of sight, out of mind.”
Healthy Thanksgiving Tip #7
Wear form-fitting clothes. Save the baggy, comfy clothes for lounging around the house later, and dress to impress on Thanksgiving Day. You’ll be less likely to overeat if you’re wearing something a little snug because you’ll start feeling a little uncomfortable more quickly than if you were wearing loose clothing.
Healthy Thanksgiving Tip #8
Skip the leftovers. If you’re the type to keep nibbling on those tasty leftovers until they’re completely gone, politely decline to take any home at the end of the day. Should you be the host, send all of the leftovers home with guests.
Healthy Thanksgiving Tip #9
Get a free nutrition consultation from our Registered Dietitian or nutrition coaches. Learn how to stay healthy and happy through the holidays! Get ideas on how to make it through the holiday season without feeling guilty for enjoying those festive foods.