Dieting is never easy but when Thanksgiving arrives, it is even more difficult to resist the delicious food offered during the national culinary celebration. If you plan carefully and employ some simple strategies, you can enjoy a wonderful holiday and maintain your weight loss goals. Your game plan will include exercise, healthy snacks at appropriate times and a revised menu.
Preparing Your Dinner
Step 1
Roast your turkey with no additional butter or oils. Average turkeys have enough fat under the skin to keep them moist while roasting. Use olive oil sparingly, if you must add oil. Season the turkey with plenty of herbs to add flavor without calories. Remove the skin before serving the turkey.
Step 2
Add shellfish, which are low in fat and fairly low in calories, to your menu as a second protein option. Steam your favorite fresh shellfish and add fresh lemon juice to the steaming liquid. Serve your steamed seafood with a clear dipping broth.
Step 3
Buy fresh produce and prepare it using as little fat as possible. Steam sliced fresh carrots and top them with a little warmed fresh orange juice with a sprinkle of either curry or ginger. Drizzle sherry or white balsamic vinegar over vegetables sauteed in low-fat cooking spray, as an alternative.
Step 4
Substitute full-fat ingredients in your favorite recipes with low fat or fat-free dairy alternatives. Use new healthful recipes that will become the next years' family favorites.
Step 5
Prepare a beautiful platter of freshly sliced fruit for dessert. Use fruit that you would not normally serve to make it more interesting and festive. Serve a low-fat cheese with the fruit for an elegant finale.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't expect to loose weight during the holidays. Make weight maintenance your goal. Consider eating a healthful snack, such as a small apple, just prior to dinner to reduce your appetite. Use a smaller plate and when you are finished, clear your plate. This will help reduce the second-helping temptation. Exercise is always important, but during holiday time it can help burn calories and reduce stress levels. Carve out time for your exercise program this Thanksgiving.
Things You'll Need
- Turkey
- Herbs
- Fresh shrimp or other shellfish
- Lemon juice
- Fresh vegetables
- Low-fat dairy ingredients
- Fresh fruit
Member Comments