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Ah, Thanksgiving: the air is cooler, the colors are vibrant, and our
plates are full – both with busy schedules and hearty fall
fare. For many people, the holiday season brings more than joy
– it can also bring unwanted pounds. Whether it's your mom's
special casserole or Aunt Judy's double fudge dessert, it can be tough
to pass up those favorite holiday foods you only taste once a year. So,
what can you do to avoid weight gain and stay well – and
still celebrate the season? These tips can help.
Get off to a good start. Don't
go to the Thanksgiving table hungry. Snack on healthy, filling foods
the day of the big event. You'll be less tempted by high-calorie
options if your stomach isn't growling. Don't skip meals, especially
breakfast. If you do, you'll be more likely to overeat.
Drink water all
day long to stay hydrated. It's easy to confuse hunger with thirst. If
you're going to someone else's house for Thanksgiving, ask for a glass of
water once you arrive to help you feel full and avoid overindulging.
And don’t head straight for the food – make a point
of greeting friends or introducing yourself to new people.
Watch your portion sizes.
You don’t need to fill your plate with every dish on the
table. Sample small portions of your favorites and enjoy the indulgence
without feeling guilty. It may help to use a small appetizer- or
dessert-sized plate and fill it first with healthy choices. Leave just
a little space for a small sample of whatever unhealthy treat
you’re craving, but eat that last, after you’ve
filled up on the more nutritious offerings.
Eat your veggies first.
Fill half of your plate with vegetables. They tend to be low in
calories and packed with nutrients. Just go lightly on high-calorie vegetable dishes covered in cheese or heavy sauces.
Go easy on the alcohol.
Not only are alcoholic beverages loaded with calories, drinking them
tends to weaken your resolve to eat better. However, if you do decide
to indulge, avoid heavy holiday drinks, and stick with light beer or a
glass of wine instead.
Take a post-dinner walk.
Don't head straight to the couch and zone out watching football. Lace
up your sneakers and head outside. Spend time with your family while
burning off calories.
And remember, a few indulgences
won’t wreck your diet. Just try to keep these tips in mind
along the way!
Revised: 11/19/2009
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