For A Healthier Thanksgiving
November 18, 2012
This time of year brings us together to spend time with our family and usually means eating lots of delicious heavy food. This year try to focus more on the family and lighten up your recipes. Here are some simple tips to have a healthier Thanksgiving.
Stay active. Playing football or a fun sport can burn calories and become a new family tradition.
Don't skip breakfast. A solid breakfast can help limit your appetite as the day persists.
Modify recipes. Making small changes to traditional recipes to cut calories and fat can go a long way. Use less butter and oil when possible. Opt for fat-free chicken broth and fat-free yogurt instead of cream in dips, mashed potatoes and casseroles.
Control portions. Obviously we should avoid going back for seconds and limit portion size.
Choose wisely. Only eat the foods that are unique to Thanksgiving and save ordinary foods for another day. Save some room for side dishes and dessert.
Don't rush. Eating slowly helps people enjoy their food and realize when they are full.
Limit alcohol. Calories from alcohol add up quickly. Alcohol also triggers cravings for high-calorie comfort foods. It's also a good idea to drink some water between alcoholic drinks.
Change the focus. Rather than concentrating only on food, remember that Thanksgiving is a holiday about family and friends as well. Find ways to enjoy quality time together, such as playing games or socializing.
Celebrate the day. Thanksgiving only comes once a year, but try not to continue indulging throughout the month and a half holiday season.
Be prepared. As holiday shopping kicks into high gear, remember to stock up on healthy snacks, such as trail mix and fruit, and drink plenty of water to avoid resorting to high-calorie fast foods
