Thanksgiving Survival Tips

With Thanksgiving only a few days away, you are probably having a few discussions with yourself on what to eat, how much to eat, and how to stay healthy, so I thought I would provide you with some suggestions to help you through Thanksgiving. With a few simple adjustments that will be barely noticeable, but highly effective, can help you lower your stress levels this holiday and keep your healthy eating on course.

No Guilt

This time of year is all about family, friends, tradition, and having a good time together. Mental health and fortitude are very powerful in helping people through challenges such as healthy eating and weight gain, so instead of getting mad at yourself for that extra serving of pumpkin pie, remind yourself that there is just one Thanksgiving Day a year, let go and enjoy spending time with your loved ones.

Prepare A Home Cooked Thanksgiving Dinner

It may be rich and full of calories, but at least it is low on preservatives, additives, colorings, and other artificial stuff your body does not need. Prepare the meal together with your family members, and get the added benefit of quality time together, before all the guests arrive.

Go Outside

Spend some time during Thanksgiving Day to take a walk, a hike, or a bike ride with the kids. Moving your body will help reduce stress and clear your head so you can enjoy the holiday.

Serve On Small Plates

Countless studies have shown that when plates are smaller, less food is placed on them, and less is eaten, so use the appetizer/salad plates and soup bowls (and of course have bigger plates out for your guests).

Color Your Table

The turkey, stuffing, gravy, and potatoes are all shades of beige/brown. Thank goodness for the cranberry sauce. But what about some hearty salads as sides too? Corn, broccoli, beans, carrots and peas, beets, leafy greens, and so many other veggies can be an integral and healthy part of the meal.

Hors D’oeuvres

Make them small, tiny and bite size. This is important because people consume 300 calories BEFORE the meal begins just by snacking throughout the day.

Drink Water

And fine wine of course (I would like a glass of Pinot Grigio, please), but not soft drinks, juices, or other sweetened beverages.

Wait Before Dessert

Take 20-30 minutes after finishing off the main course to let your body feel full. You will then be happy with a small portion of pumpkin pie.

Plan Ahead

You have a long weekend ahead of you. How will you get back to your regularly scheduled workouts and healthy eating? Plan for physical activity as well as healthy eating. Alongside turkey day leftovers, make sure to have plenty of fruits and vegetables on hand to keep you on track.

The important thing to remember is to enjoy Thanksgiving with your family and friends and with a little planning (using the tips above) you can eat and drink without stressing on “I cannot eat that” or “I ate to much of everything.” Just relax and have fun. I hope you all have a festive and joyous Thanksgiving and until next time, be happy, healthy, and beautiful!