There are two types of people on Thanksgiving…people who wake up early to run and everyone else. If running first thing in the morning isn’t your thing, but you aren’t looking to eat yourself into a coma this year, we have an in-between option! Check out some of our tips on how to have a healthy Thanksgiving this year.
Drink Water
Many people go wrong simply by not drinking water throughout the day. Especially if you will be drinking alcohol, make sure to drink at least one glass of water for every alcoholic drink. Not only will this keep you feeling great and having a good time, but it will also keep you well-hydrated.
Another pro tip: When we are dehydrated, we often mistake thirst for hunger! An easy way to avoid overeating is to stay hydrated!
Eat a Pre-Dinner Meal
Have you ever said, “I’m saving my calories for dinner!” and then find that you are starving by the time the meal rolls around but can hardly eat? Fasting is a useful hunger management/weight loss tool when executed correctly, but this isn’t an example of strategic fasting!
Make sure to eat a balanced meal with lean protein and veggies or fruit prior to having dinner. Not only will you be less inclined to grab for the really unhealthy options out of pure hunger, but you’ll likely eat slower and be able to enjoy more of your meal!
Make Healthy Alternatives
Try to make a healthier alternative to a traditionally unhealthy dish and save your calories for the big-ticket items you really enjoy! One of our favorites is switching out the traditional green bean casserole with a lighter (but equally delicious) option: sautéed green beans with pancetta, mushrooms, and garlic. Try this recipe from The Food Network and make it without sour cream if anyone has a dairy sensitivity:
Sauteed Green Beans with Pancetta and Mushrooms
Ditch the high fructose corn syrup in canned cranberry sauce and make this delicious cranberry jalapeno salsa instead! Pair it with turkey and gravy or with corn chips as an appetizer. Try this recipe and add orange zest for additional sweetness and flavor! Trying to be extra healthy? Forgo the added sugar and let the natural sugars from the fruits speak for themselves!
We hope these tips have helped you learn how to have a healthy Thanksgiving this year! All the warmest wishes from our family to yours!
