Tips for a Healthier Thanksgiving
Updated: Dec 16, 2020
When one thinks of Thanksgiving, healthy probably isn't the first word that comes to mind. It might even be the last! But it doesn't need to be that way. It is perfectly reasonable to have a healthy Thanksgiving that's still everything we remember from our childhood - full of food and family and fun. Here are some tips to help you accomplish just that.
Drink Water
Before you eat drink a tall glass of water. While you're eating, try to finish two more glasses and drink a glass between alcoholic drinks as well. Staying hydrated will prevent you from overeating, help you digest better, and the many trips to the bathroom basically double as cardio! Win - win - win!
Eat Veggies and Protein
When it comes to dinner, start with vegetables and protein, then move on to the "fun stuff" and you likely won't be hungry enough to overdo it!
Listen to Your Tummy
Don't load up on sweet potatoes when it's the green bean casserole that's calling your name. Pick your favorites and pass on the foods you can live without. Or if you're like me and want to try everything, just try small portions of everything. If you don't like something, don't finish it. And stop eating if you're full. No one is forcing you to eat every bite or go back for seconds. Listen to your tummy!
Get Moving
Wake up in time to workout first thing in the morning before everyone else gets up. Or get the family to go for a post-dinner walk. Even just getting outside to throw the ball around will make you feel much more productive and aid your digestion. Whatever you do, get some movement in, don't just pass out on the couch in a turkey-coma.
Modify Recipe Faves
Finally, it's totally possible to make healthier versions of your favorite thanksgiving dishes! I'll share some of my favorites here below for you to try out.
Mash a Root Veggie: Sweet potatoes, russet potatoes, cauliflower, butternut squash, you name it. Nothing goes with a healthy, roast turkey like a mashed veggie!
Green Been Casserole: try this healthier version of our fave casserole dish
Roasted Veggies: My personal fave are these roasted carrots and brussel sprouts.
Cranberry Sauce: Here's one that's only naturally sweet!
Enjoy your Thanksgiving and make it a happy, healthy one!