5 Ways To Eat What You Want On Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the season of overeating so why not try the best you can by not going off the deep end so early on?  Your health is the most important gift so honoring your good fortune on the day of thanks is a great way to take care of that gift.

Here are just a few easy tips that can help you avoid being the stuffed bird this holiday.

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1. Toss the Turkey Skin

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Choosing lean white turkey meat is a great start towards healthier eating. But as soon as you grab a slice of turkey, trim off the skin. Though delicious, the skin is very high in fat—and not the good kind. Toss the skin before you even start eating. If you leave it on your plate, you may eventually be tempted to nibble.

2. Eat Before Dinner

Don’t deprive yourself before your Thanksgiving dinner. Eat a hearty breakfast and lunch, and healthy snacks throughout the day. If you show up at dinner starving, you’ll be more likely to overeat and your body will have a harder time digesting the heavy meal.

3. Drink Lots of Water

Drink plenty of water before and during your meal. Not only does your mind often interpret thirst as hunger, but water will help your stomach stay full and keep you from overeating. Plus, you won’t pack on any of the additional calories soft drinks and other beverages can add to your meal.

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4. Eat Plenty of Vegetables

Before reaching for turkey and potatoes, fill two-thirds of your plate with vegetables of all colours. Healthy veggies will fill you up and keep you from indulging in unhealthy food.

5. Limit Sweets

Aim for a teaspoon or two of cranberry sauce instead of drowning your turkey in it; the relish is often high in sugar and should be eaten in moderation. When it comes to dessert, you don’t have to avoid it altogether. If you’ve eaten a healthy meal, you can indulge yourself in a sliver of pie or small portion of ice cream. If you’re still craving more, eat fruit to satisfy your sweet tooth.