Staying on Track at Thanksgiving

For the past 7 years I have attended not one, but two Thanksgiving dinners on Thanksgiving Day. I know many of you have a similar situation. I know I feel obliged tomake both sides of the family happy.

This “double-dipping” at the Thanksgiving dinner table can be disastrous if you aren’t careful. You don’t want to offend the host/hostess by declining a plate and you may feel like you have to eat. This is where portions and careful selection are key.

10 Tips From the Wise…

1) Eat a light breakfast so you aren’t starving by the time you eat your first Thanksgiving meal. (Examples: fruit/yogurt, slice of toast with peanut butter, hard-boiled egg, cup of cereal)

2) Plan ahead... will you eat 2 dinners? Or have dinner at one and dessert at the other?

3) If it is a buffet/family style see what is being served before digging into the first dish. Maybe you would prefer mashed potatoes instead of that dinner roll.

4) Don’t go back for seconds! Take small portions of items you would like to try so you don’t feel deprived.

5) Fill up on vegetables! But, be aware of those that are covered in butter, cream, or cheese.

6) Bring a healthy dish that you know you can enjoy. The host will likely cover the potatoes, starches, and turkey so offer to bring a vegetable dish. Roasted root vegetables or a nice salad can keep your plate in balance!

7) Think twice about dessert…maybe you will only want dessert at one of your stops, or maybe you want a sliver at each stop.  

8) Go for a walk. A little bit of exercise can wake you up instead of falling into a food coma!

9) Drink alcohol in moderation (1 drink for women and 2 for men). Alcohol contains calories, but also can reduce our inhibition around food making it easier to overeat. And please don’t drink and drive!

10) Don’t sweat the small stuff…

Thanksgiving is only one day of the year, so if you go overboard, forgive yourself and get back on track the next day.  

Last but not least… Thanksgiving is about family and friends and having a good time. Fill your belly with good foods, enjoy the day, and be thankful for all that you have!