This Thanksgiving Eat Smart and Be Grateful
So many of us look forward to the Thanksgiving celebration in anticipation of a buffet of scrumptious food… and afterwards spend days regretting overeating. This year, plan ahead to eat reasonably. Enjoy the array of holiday foods but don’t overdo it. Here are some tips to get you through the day:
Fill up on the veggie platter. Most people have appetizers out for snacking until dinner is prepared. This often includes a tray of cut vegetables. Help yourself to carrots, cauliflower, celery, radishes and other raw vegetables. Just go light on the dip. The fiber and water in the crudites will help fill you up so you aren’t starving by the time dinner is served.
Only eat the foods you like. There’s no rule that you have to take some of everything. If you aren’t crazy about chestnut stuffing or cranberry sauce, leave it off your plate. You’ll be wasting the calories eating something you aren’t really enjoying.
Eat the special occasion foods. At this time of year we see foods most of don’t get every day. If you love roast turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce and other dishes your family only makes once a year, focus on enjoying these foods. Pass on the rolls or mashed potatoes, or something you can have practically any day year round.
Take it easy on the fatty foods. While you take advantage of the sumptuous turkey or ham, stuffing and potatoes, and pecan and pumpkin pie, go light on the toppings. Take a bit less gravy, use a bit less buttery spread, and lighten up on the whipped cream at dessert. Start with a sliver of pie and eat it slowly, savoring each bite. You might find yourself satisfied with less than you’re used to pouring on.
Start with small amounts. Keep in mind that large plates scream out to be filled to the edges. If you’re used to serving yourself according to your eyes and not your appetite, you could be putting more than double the calories on your plate than you should be. Studies show that people tend to eat every bite of what we serve ourselves. Focus on the center of the plate, taking just one spoonful of each food, and avoid piling it up to through the rim and to the edge. You can usually go back for seconds if you’re still hungry. Don’t forget, though, that dessert will be served shortly!
Enjoy the holidays with your loved ones and savor each bite of food. Instead of filling up aim for eating until you aren’t hungry anymore. Then stop, engage in conversation, and be grateful when you don’t put on any weight this Thanksgiving.
Written by Laurie Beebe
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About The Author: Laurie Beebe has been a registered dietitian for 25 years and is certified in adult weight management. Laurie currently serves as a Related posts:
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