Can you believe that it is already November?! That means that the holidays are right around the corner, literally! Thanksgiving is the first one up, and as we all know, it is a holiday that is all about eating. Did you know that the average calorie consumption is around 4,500 and 229g of fat for Thanksgiving. Yikes!
What can you do to avoid gaining weight during this season? There are actually a few things that will make it easier to keep your weight in check, while still enjoying your favorite holiday foods.
- Eat a good breakfast before the festivities begin. Try to eat a meal high in protein and fiber that will keep you full for a while, so you don’t eat everything in sight when you walk in the door. My favorite is 2 eggs, slice of avocado, and sweet potato hash browns.
- Watch out for the appetizers. This is where we can consume a lot of calories, before we have even eaten dinner. Avoid chips and dip, cheese sauces, crackers, etc… Instead reach for veggies, such as, carrots and broccoli with a little hummus or greek yogurt.
- Pick a smaller plate. When we have a large plate, we feel the need to fill every inch of it. Another trick is to fill half the plate with salad, but with out for salad dressing. It can be loaded in fat and calories. Instead use balsamic vinegar or a fresh squeezed lemon.
- Sample your favorites rather then loading up on them. If you love mashed potatoes, then have some, but only have a small amount. The same with any of your other favorite dishes. Take a small serving size of the dishes you love, but don’t glop it on.
- Get a better bird. Find a recipe that is flavorful without adding gravy, cranberry sauce, or stuffing. If you don’t enjoy turkey without covering it in sauces, then consider choosing a different protein, such as ham or chicken.
- Start a new tradition. If you are hosting, offer healthy side dishes or desserts, or ask guests to bring a healthy dish. Try recipes that don’t require heavy sauces or sugar, such as, sweet potatoes without brown sugar and marshmallows.
- Watch your alcohol consumption. Too many drinks can lead to a lot of calories. It can also cause you to mindlessly eat.
- Forgive yourself! If you overeat, don’t fret. Instead of stressing about the food you ate, go take a walk, or play an active game (football, twister, interactive Xbox). Be creative.
- Remember why you are there. Have conversations with loved ones, play games, be in the moment. You don’t need to eat all day to have fun.
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