Healthy Holiday Hints

Thanksgiving is this Thursday and the winter holidays are right around the corner. You're probably looking forward to relaxing with family and friends, right? ME TOO!! However, I want to share some eating tips so that you don't sabotage all of your hard work. There's no doubt that we indulge in tempting and tasty tidbits! So, how can you enjoy yourself without feeling like you're alienating yourself from the festivities? Maybe these ideas will help!



If you're cooking:
* Make sweet potatoes or yams without adding extra sugar.
* If making green bean casserole, use the 98% fat free cream of mushroom soup instead.
* While baking, replace oil with applesauce, sugar with Splenda or Truvia, white flour with wheat flour, and butter with something lower in fat (I use Smart Balance 50/50 Omega-3 sticks or spread).
* Don't sample what you're making!! Be wary of licking the batter, etc. Think of it this way, if you're willing to put it in your mouth, then you should be willing to log it in your food journal. Is it worth adding?!?



Before eating the main meal:
* Drink water...it will help you feel full. It will also help flush your system!!
* Be conscious of the carbohydrates left out for snacks (a few chips here and there will add up QUICKLY).
* If there are veggies, eat them (not saturated in dressing)!
* Try to stick with eating every 2-3 hours too...if you keep yourself on a schedule, you won't be tempted to stuff yourself like that Thanksgiving turkey!
* Don't graze!! Nibbling on too many snacks will force your body to shut down its natural calorie burning process because your body can't keep up with your intake.



During dinner:
* Again, be conscious of your carbohydrates...too many will make you feel sluggish!
* Choosing either white or dark meat is fine, so enjoy whichever one you prefer, but leave the skin on the side.
* Instead of pouring gravy on top of everything, have it on the side. Use the salad dressing method of dipping your fork in the gravy first. It will give it the flavor you're craving without the extra calories.
* Watch your portions. If you want to try many different items, enjoy them, but cut back on the amount you'd normally serve yourself.
* Try to limit high fat items (fried items, things loaded with cheese, etc.).
* Calories from alcohol are stored in the abdomen. Try to stay away from too much of it.
* Take a walk outside after dinner if possible. The fresh air will feel great and your body will thank you for helping to work off the meal!



After dinner:
* Of course you want to enjoy dessert, so have a sliver! You don't need a huge slice...just a little will satisfy your craving
* Drink coffee or tea while chatting with others.



The healthiest options:
* skinless white turkey
* cranberries (don't add too much sugar - try orange juice instead)
* yams (try with some maple syrup on the side for guests who want to make it sweeter)
* sweet potatoes (leave the marshmallows off the top or scoop them off if added already)
* green veggies (load up on them)
* pumpkin pie (if making it, try skim milk to make it less fattening)

Enjoy yourself...guilt free!!!