Ways To Eat Healthy On Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving, an American holiday characterized by family, sharing and giving thanks, is also associated with over-indulgence and weight gain. Change your perspective to think of Thanksgiving as a time to devote to gathering and enjoying the company of family and friends rather than eat. Concentrate on eating healthy and getting plenty of exercise and sleep, which are essential for weight control.

Choose Wisely

A common Thanksgiving mistake is eating everything and anything, regardless of whether or not you really want it. Instead, choose only what you really want to eat and pass up the rest. Worry less about offending a host or family member and more about yourself. If you do not absolutely adore a certain dish, do not eat it. Fill your plate with the healthiest choices available, such as white-meat, skinless turkey with a small amount of gravy, seasoned green beans and a scoop of whipped white or sweet potatoes. Consider bringing along a healthful dish to share if you are not hosting Thanksgiving dinner, such as colorful assorted raw veggies with low-calorie dip or homemade, low-sugar cranberry sauce. Avoid fat and sugar-loaded dishes as they will do the most damage. If you feel comfortable, let your host know ahead of time that you are watching what you eat or are on a special diet. The more familiar you are with the menu, the easier it will be to maneuver around obstacles.

Healthy Trade-Offs

When it comes to food-related holidays, such as Thanksgiving, there are typically plenty of options for what to eat. Attempt to make the best choices you can without denying yourself entirely and your body will thank you. Alcohol provides empty calories and some choices are higher in calories than others. Instead of having two cocktails made from spirits, enjoy a glass or two of champagne made with low-calorie punch or small glasses of wine interspersed with mineral water. Enjoy crudités with low-calorie dip, grilled veggies, and other low-calorie hors d'oeuvres. Dr. Howard Shapiro, author of Picture Perfect Weight Loss, recommends making healthy trade-offs, such as choosing a baked sweet potato instead of candied yams or wild rice instead of buttery turkey stuffing. Fill your plate with veggies and whole grains. Enjoy one glass of wine with your meal and use discernment when dessert comes. Instead of pecan pie topped with vanilla ice cream, opt for a small slice of pumpkin or sweet potato pie with a dollop of low-calorie whipped topping.

Party Tips

Focus on the reason for the season over Thanksgiving. During a work or cocktail party, set yourself up for healthy eating success. Do not linger around food, such as standing in the kitchen or near the buffet table or you will be much more tempted to grab a bite. Gloria Tsang, R.D., of Health Castle recommends that you avoid arriving at a holiday party ravenous as you will set yourself up for a high-calorie disaster. Before a holiday party or even Thanksgiving dinner, enjoy a small well-balanced snack, such as reduced-fat cheese and a piece of fruit or a cup of vegetable soup with whole-grain crackers.