Nov 10 2020

Is a Healthy Thanksgiving Possible?

Posted by Scott  filed under Nutrition

 

Thanksgiving dinner is a time for families to come together and celebrate, but it can also be a time for loading up on calories which could cause some weight gain.

Maintaining a healthy diet can seem difficult thinking about all the wonderful foods coming at Thanksgiving, but it can be done.

Here are some tips for staying healthy during Thanksgiving:

• Be active. You should exercise a little every day, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Go for a walk in the morning or before dinner, ride a bike, play football. Find something you enjoy and keep moving.
• Eat breakfast. Skipping meals to “save up” for the big one at lunch or dinner may seem like the way to go. But not eating breakfast isn’t a good choice. Eat a simple, healthy breakfast with proteins and whole grains to keep you full.
• Drink water. Try to stick to water throughout the day and avoid soda, juice, or alcohol.
• Eat only what you like. When a bunch of foods are laid out, it may be tempting to eat a bit of everything, even if you don’t like it all. Instead of eating everything you see, you should try to limit yourself to the things you really enjoy – and in moderate portions.
• Use a smaller plate. It’s harder to load your plate up with too much food if the plate is smaller. Using a smaller plate makes for smaller portions – this tactic only works if you  avoid eating seconds…
• Savor your food. Don’t rush through what you’re eating; take your time and try to enjoy every bite.
• Wash your hands. It’s important to remember to wash your hands before and after eating, and before and after preparing food.  This tip won’t reduce calories but it may keep you healthier.
• Put it away. Once everyone’s done eating, pack the leftovers up to resist the temptation to eat more. Out of sight, out of mind.

References

Spencer, Ali. (2014). “10 Healthy Tips to Tackle Thankgiving.” Retrieved from: https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/topics/live-well/2014/11/10-healthy-tips-to-tackle-thanksgiving/

Greatist. (2012). “20 Ways to Stay Fit and Healthy This Thanksgiving.” Retrieved from: https://greatist.com/health/fit-healthy-thanksgiving-tips