10 Tips for a Healthy Thanksgiving

Did you know that going all out on Thanksgiving could lead to you putting on ½ to a pound of fat in a single meal?!

Think again if you are planning to take on the holidays with a “see-food” diet plan. Make choices that your waistline will thank you for after the holiday season. Here are 10 ways to work toward a healthy and happy Thanksgiving celebration!

1. Fitness before food

Get your body in the fat burning zone by exercising before your meal. Just make sure not to use this as an excuse to pig out.

2. Drink plenty of water

Many of us confuse hunger for thirst, so keep hunger pangs at bay by staying hydrated! Having a glass of water in hand will keep you from nibbling too much as well.

3. Friends over food

Focus on family and friendship, not feasting.

4. Protein pack your plate

This should be easy because guess what’s packed with protein?! Gobble, gobble….turkey!

5. Side with health

Bring a healthy side dish, so you can guarantee there is a good option to pair with your turkey. And no, sweet potatoes smothered in marshmallows do not count as healthy.

6. Choose your cheats and savor them

Pick between a dessert, caloric beverage, or savory side — not all three :) Know when you are indulging and enjoy the moment, but don’t bother with guilt.

7. Dive into dessert with your boo

Share the sweetness for less sugar and a loving moment…..bet that pumpkin pie will taste better when it’s fed to you by your honey!

8. Socialize over seconds

Keep your mouth busy with great conversation or sip on a glass of sparkling water to preoccupy yourself from thinking you need seconds.

9. Move after munching

Walking aids digestion, so get up and go after your meal.

10. Move on

After your special meal is done, move on with life and don’t let leftovers pull you down. Get back on track with your healthy eating and exercise plan to keep holiday weight off!

—
Reed Mosimann

Fitness Professional for Life Time (NASM, ACE)