Thanksgiving is often associated with abundance and can challenge your efforts to eat healthily. However, we're here to present you with some tips and strategies to enjoy a deliciously healthy Thanksgiving!
1. The Importance of Breakfast
It can be tempting to skip breakfast to reduce your calorie intake for the evening meal. But in reality, this will leave you famished for dinner, making it even more challenging to eat well at that time. Start your day with a nutritious breakfast like a hard-boiled egg with a slice of whole wheat bread or oatmeal topped with some fruit. In the mid-afternoon, have a small snack containing at least 5g of protein to help you feel satiated before the evening meal. This will assist you in better controlling your food choices in the evening.
2. Adjust Your Recipes
Holiday recipes often contain high amounts of added fats and sugars. But don't worry, here are some tips to lighten up your favorite recipes if you're the host:
- Use fat-free chicken broth to prepare the turkey.
- Opt for applesauce instead of oil in your cakes.
- Minimize the amount of oil and butter used.
- Choose plain yogurt or light sour cream in your dips and mashed potatoes.
- Use whole grain bread for the stuffing.
- Prepare a fruit-based dessert, such as apple crisp or pumpkin pie.
- Include more vegetable dishes on the menu. Squashes, Brussels sprouts, carrots, and green beans are in season!
3. Portion Control!
Before serving yourself, ask yourself what you truly feel like eating. There's no need to consume foods that you eat throughout the year just because they're available, such as bread baskets, chips, candies, and chocolates, among others. Fill your plate with foods that genuinely bring you pleasure while respecting reasonable portions.
4. Take the Time to Savor!
The joy of eating lies in savoring, not overeating. Take your time to eat slowly, place your fork down between each bite, and fully enjoy each food. This way, you'll appreciate your meal more and feel satiated more quickly. Additionally, our bodies often interpret thirst as hunger. Drink plenty of water before and during the meal to stay well hydrated and avoid the extra calories found in carbonated or alcoholic beverages.
By following these tips and strategies, you can fully enjoy Thanksgiving while preserving your health and well-being. Remember, balance is key, and it's entirely possible to indulge while maintaining good eating habits. Savour each bite, take the time to taste, and appreciate the flavours of this festive season.
Feel free to put these tips into practice and share them with your loved ones. Have a fantastic Thanksgiving surrounded by your family and friends, and enjoy these moments of togetherness while giving significant importance to a healthy and balanced diet.
Happy Thanksgiving from TeamNutrition!
