Cut Calories and Still Enjoy Thanksgiving? It's Possible!

Let’s be honest, Thanksgiving is all about food! With so many different foods on the table, it can be challenging to keep your health and waistline in mind. Here are some tips that are sure to please your taste buds and keep your waistline trim.

1. Don’t skip meals earlier in the day to “save” calories for the Thanksgiving feast. If you skip meals and sit down at the table ravenous, you are more likely to overeat.
2. Before you serve yourself, take a moment to look at all the food before you, then make a conscious decision to take a small portion of starches and lean protein (these should each fill ¼ of your plate). Be sure to include vegetables too, such as green beans and carrots on the remaining ½ of your dish.
3. Avoid vegetables in creams, butter or gravies.
4. Have dessert, but take a small portion. Eat slowly and savor every bite!
5. When it comes to beverages, stick to calorie-free drinks such as water, seltzer, diet sodas, and unsweetened teas. If having mixed drinks, wine or beer, do so in moderation.
6. Encourage family and friends to take a walk after the Thanksgiving meal. Not only will walking help burn calories but it will also give you a break from being around food.
7. Make a “Health Promise” to yourself for Thanksgiving Day. Be sure to write down your promise and read it before you sit down to eat. A health promise may be: “I promise to go for a walk after my meal” or “I promise to limit the amount of desserts I eat”  
8. If you are a guest at a family or friend’s house, offer to take a low-calorie dish.
9. If you are hosting a dinner, clear the table once everyone has eaten to help guests and yourself avoid snacking.
10. Be thankful for your health, happiness and the love of friends and family.  

Remember, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect and be thankful for all the wonderful joys in your life. Enjoy food with friends and families but do so with awareness. After all the only thing that should be stuffed on Thanksgiving is the turkey!