Lighten up Thanksgiving: Healthy Tips

Written by: Elsie Velazquez cert. Personal Trainer at Prescription Fitness (Cleveland,Ohio)

Thanksgiving is easily everyone’s favorite holiday.  It is a day to enjoy time with friends and family.  Unfortunately, it is also a day that involves lots of food – some not so healthy – and it is easy to over-indulge.  Before you panic, below is a list of tips that will allow you to enjoy the day without feeling deprived and/or guilty.

 Tip #1:

Get enough sleep the night before.   Not getting enough sleep can amp up your appetite the next day.

Tip #2:

Start your day with water and keep it going all day.

Tip #3:

Do NOT skip breakfast!  You are setting yourself up for overeating later in the day by skipping breakfast.

Tip #4:

Get a quick workout in – even a 15 minute morning workout is better than nothing.  Get your heart pumping early in the day and you will feel better.

Tip #5:

Go easy on the appetizers.  Unless you are hitting the veggie tray, chances are you are taking in too many unnecessary calories.  Save your appetite (and calories) for the actual meal.

Tip #6:

Watch the dressing!  Instead of heavy dressings, consider using vinegar, juice from a lemon, and sprinkling dried herbs on your salad.

Tip #7:

Consider using your oven to roast veggies instead of sautéing them in a skillet. 

Tip #8:

Sweet Potatoes casserole is another favorite.  Instead of adding marshmallow topping, cover with crunchy oats and nuts.

Tip #9:

We all love mashed potatoes but why not make a lighter version?  Substitute some of the potatoes with mashed cauliflower.  You won’t be able to tell the difference but your waistline will.

Tip #10:

Choose white meat over dark.

Tip #11:

Use a smaller plate instead of the large dinner plate.  The reason is obvious.

Tip #12:

Watch the liquid calories and I am not just talking about alcohol.  Juice and soda have tons of sugar and empty calories as well.

Tip #13:

Skip seconds until you have given yourself at least 20 minutes.  Usually, you will find you do not want that second serving after all.

Tip #14:

Stay away from danger foods such as green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, biscuits and cornbread.  If you must indulge, watch portions carefully.

Last but not least…

Tip #15:

Don’t skip desert!  Just be careful to eat in moderation.

If you have any questions or comments about healthy holiday tips, contact Prescription Fitness at info@prescription-fitness.com. Happy Thanksgiving!