From the fatty gravy to the creamy pumpkin pie, even looking at the Thanksgiving dinner table is enough to make you decide to wear stretchy pants for the occasion and if you are anything like me just looking at it you will gain a few pounds!!!
Would it come as a SHOCK to know that the average American consumes about 4,500 calories and up to 229 grams of fat, on Thanksgiving! WHAT WHAT .... So, how can you stop yourself from gaining more than a pound in a day? Here are nine tips you can lean on for this holiday season, so the bird is the only one stuffed at the end of the day.
How to Not Gain Weight Over Thanksgiving......
1. Get a good head start. Start your day with a healthy breakfast, such as two eggs and whole-grain toast and side of greens - try this yummy KALE & EGGS recipe I tried recently!!! A combination that’s high in protein and fiber is a great way to start your day! This also ensure you you won’t be starving and you will be more likely to enjoy the main meal in moderation!
2. Don’t go overboard on appetizers. It’s very possible to consume 1,000 calories before the turkey even hits the table. Instead of skipping the baked brie altogether, fill most of your plate with vegetables and fruits - look for the healthier choices. Keep your servings in check too - dips or dressings should be roughly the size of two thumbs.
3. Trick your brain. Try using a SMALLER plate - or if that is not an option - fill your large plate more than half way with salad. Don't overdue it on dressing - but having the idea that your plate is overflowing weather true or not will make your brain believe it is.
4. Enjoy your favorites. One of the best things about Thanksgiving is the memories and traditions of the day. Don’t limit yourself from enjoying your favorite dishes, but rather limit the servings, within 3 bites you should be satisfied.
5. Try some new recipes! Last year I made the Quinoa Stuffing and it was a big hit!!! This year you can check out FIXATE, a cooking show from 21 Day Fix-creator Autumn Calabrese and her brother, chef Bobby Calabrese, they have have put together an incredible menu of Fix-approved Thanksgiving recipes. From Green Bean Casserole and Cranberry Sauce to stuffing and Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, they’ve got you covered. Check out FIXATE here!
6. Get a better bird. Most Thanksgiving turkeys are about as succulent as woodchips. No wonder we cover them up with gravy, cranberry sauce, or stuffing. Instead, find a recipe that results in a more flavorful turkey, or cook a different protein — ham, fish, or chicken — that you’ll enjoy on its own, and have only moderate portions of the heavy sides. If you’re not hosting, consider skipping the bird altogether if you feel the need to smother it in sauce.
7. Improve traditions. Hosting? Take some of the pressure off yourself and ask guests to bring a healthy side dish or dessert. If you think they might be stumped, you could even provide them with a list of healthy side dishes they could make. Going to someone else’s home? Bring a healthy side dish of your own! They’ll appreciate it way more than the gift of cellulite.
8. Don’t get drunk. Limit yourself to one drink before or during dinner and one drink after dinner. If you are anything like me if you get drunk at dinner (or before) then all your inhibitions will be down by the time dessert comes. Two pieces of pie, a couple of cookies, a scoop of ice cream later… and you’ll need a forklift to get you off the couch and a cab to take you home. Don’t be that person.
9. Forgive yourself. Did you read this and still overeat? Don’t keep slipping down the slope. Get up and encourage someone to take a walk with you. Check in with your accountability group and get support! You can bounce back no problem!
10. Remember why you’re there. Between the football game and your sister’s amazing pumpkin pie, take a moment to pause and reflect on what you’re thankful for this year. As tasty as the dishes are, nothing compares to the people we share it with.