Tips for a Happy, Healthy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just weeks away. Soon families will be gathering together to celebrate the holiday with football, shopping and, of course, lots of food! Most traditional Thanksgiving dinners are high in fat, carbs, calories and sugar, and many of us tend to overindulge.

Don’t spend the majority of your holiday stressing, going between the kitchen and the couch this year. Enjoy a guilt-free turkey day by making a few simple, mindful choices and head into the holidays in a healthy way.

Don’t Give Up Your Healthy Routine

If you’re already following a healthy diet and workout routine, don’t give it up just because the holidays are here. Healthy eating habits and exercise most of the year will allow you a little extra wiggle room for a treat or two around the holidays. If you don’t normally have the best eating and fitness patterns, now is a great time to start. Choose clean, whole foods like green leafy vegetables and lean proteins.

Start the Day with Exercise

Before the holiday festivities begin, get some physical activity in. Go for a jog or a brisk walk with the dog before your Thanksgiving celebration. An early morning family football game is a fun and healthy tradition to start. Not only will you feel better, you’ll burn calories and be inspired to make healthier choices throughout your day.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking if you skip breakfast, you’ll be able to eat more later in the day. Most likely, you’ll just be hungrier and prone to eat even more. Instead eat a healthy and balanced, protein filled breakfast. Oatmeal, eggs or a green smoothie are excellent choices.

Drink a lot of Water

It’s important to stay hydrated, and avoid mistaking hunger for thirst. Dehydration could make you consume more food than you normally would. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. A tall glass before the big meal will keep you fuller, and you’ll eat less.

Monitor Your Portions

Focus on portion control this Thanksgiving and try to avoid mindless snacking. Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables. The other half can consist of carbs and protein. Stop eating once you are full. A second plate of food is usually unnecessary. If you are still hungry for seconds, choose salad and fruit over mashed potatoes. Eating slowly will also ensure you enjoy your food more and you’ll feel fuller too.

Keep Moving All Day

After dinner, forget the nap on the couch and do something physical. If it’s too cold or too dark to go for an after dinner stroll, help out with the cleanup or play a game. Staying active will not only help you burn a few extra calories, but you won’t feel so sluggish as the evening goes on. Feel even better by planning a day after Thanksgiving workout the next morning.

Giving thanks for life’s blessings with family and friends is the healthiest and happiest way to celebrate Thanksgiving.