Thanksgiving can be your best friend or worst nightmare. Thankfully, with this Thanksgiving Eating Guide, eating well on one of the tastiest days of the year can be easy. Focus on time spent with friends and family, rather than worrying about what you are eating all day. There are just three easy points to remember and you will be well on your way to a delicious meal that does not negatively impact your health and fitness progress.
Pre-Game
We are taking on a new meaning to “pre-game” this Thanksgiving. Before the meal, load up on water and salad. Water is zero calories, yet has a filling effect keeping you full before indulging on a meal. This is a habit you can even incorporate into your everyday diet to prevent overeating and help you stay on track with healthy eating. When loading up on salad, remember to keep the dressing and croutons to a minimum. A plate full of lettuce, spinach, and raw vegetables will set you off on the right foot before a Thanksgiving dinner, while providing many of the necessary nutrients in your diet.
Reduce
Instead of completing eliminating your favorite Thanksgiving foods from the holiday, simply reduce the amount you consume. For example, when enjoying mashed potatoes, lower the amount of gravy you use. Or, only enjoy one bread roll with dinner, rather than the three or four, which can quickly add up in calories. This strategy to Thanksgiving dinner allows you to still enjoy all of your favorite foods, without having significant impacts on your fitness progress and health goals. Thanksgiving only comes once a year, so it is important to still enjoy the holiday, while being mindful of your progress.
Skip
This step of your Thanksgiving Eating Guide may be easier said than done, but skipping the whipped cream is a great way to cut out a few calories and leave you feeling better tomorrow. Whether it is pumpkin, cherry, pecan, or apple, enjoy a bit of your favorite Thanksgiving pie, but skip the serving of whipped cream or ice cream to go alongside. Thanksgiving is only once per year — it is important to take the time to splurge on your healthy eating and enjoy your favorite treats with friends and family.
Though you will face lots of temptations and offerings by your Great Aunt Sue and Grandma Betty, sticking to your Thanksgiving Eating Guide is one of the best ways to stay on track with your health and fitness goals. Start the day off by filling up on salads, remember to reduce your intake when possible, and skip the unnecessary calories to wake up the next day feeling great and ready to continue towards your workout goals.