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Healthy Thanksgiving tips

Posted on November 15, 2023 at 8:45 AM by Iowa Weight Loss Specialists

For almost every family, Thanksgiving dinner is an annual tradition. Portion control and eating only until you are full both play a big part in eating healthy on Thanksgiving. Selecting healthy recipes in advance can also help you have a healthy holiday. 

Here are some tips on how to survive holiday feasts:

 

1. Eat breakfast.  Skipping a meal because you want to save your calories can lead to a food binge.

 

2. Maintain your food journal.  This will help you to monitor how much you are eating.

 

3. Make sure to get enough sleep the night before.  You don’t want to be around a table full of food when you’re tired and have decreased control.  Lack of sleep can also increase appetite.

 

4. Drink plenty of water.  Being dehydrated can be confused with hunger.

 

5. When appetizers are out make sure to only grab a small amount and walk away.  You still have the big dinner ahead.

 

6. Go with a smaller plate.

 

7. Watch out for hidden calories.  Dishes like green bean casserole and creamed corn may appear healthy but in reality, they are high-calorie options due to the cream bases and added toppings.

 

8. Chew slowly.  Enjoy the food you are eating and pay attention to how fast you are eating.  It is easy to overconsume when talking to others.

 

9. Skip the seconds. Wait 20 minutes and remember that you will have leftovers for a few days that you can enjoy. 

 

10. Allow for dessert.  It’s Thanksgiving.  Have your slice of pie and remember to enjoy in moderation.

 

11. Have some wiggle room.  At the end of the day, Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate family and loved ones.  Allow yourself some foods that you enjoy and make sure to get back on track the following day.

 

 

Looking for a healthy dish to try with your family this Thanksgiving? 
Check out our recipe for a Healthier Green Bean Casserole

Click on the image to view a printable version of the recipe.

 

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