Avoid Holiday Pounds!

How do I get through the Thanksgiving without expanding my waistline?

The average Thanksgiving / Holiday meal is 4000 calories!  Add to that the leftovers, and you could see a bit of weight gain after this week of family festivities.  Here are a couple of tips to lighten the BIG meal.

Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners are centered on one of the healthiest protein options out there, turkey.  It is all the sides that kill us.   

Tip #1 -  In my family, we usually have 1 smoked turkey which is very healthy, and a fried turkey breast which is not so healthy, as well as a ham!  I try to load up on the smoked turkey and have just a taste of the fried turkey and the ham.

Tip #2 - Make sure you have at least one healthy side.  I generally prepare a big pan of roasted vegetables including sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, red potatoes and onions.  These are very tasty and offer a lighter side to go with the dressing and all the other items. Try wilted spinach or greens also.

Tip #4 - Go for a walk or play an active game after the meal.  Moving will help you not feel so full and uncomfortable.

Tip #6 - Let someone else take the leftovers home (except the healthy smoked turkey!).  Enjoy the meal that day and then be done.  Move on and get back into your routine.