Healthy Holiday Eating Tips for Thanksgiving

When you learn that the average Thanksgiving dinner has over 2000 calories you may be tempted to skip it altogether. But before you resort to such drastic measures know that there are steps you can take and eating tips so that you can still look good and be healthy after the Thanksgiving dinner. Whether you are worried about a particular health issue, are trying to follow doctor’s orders or just want to watch what you eat on Thanksgiving, there are healthy holiday eating tips for Thanksgiving that can help you without leaving you feeling deprived. Here is the information you need to know for healthy eating on Thanksgiving-

· If you are guests of a Thanksgiving dinner

1. Do not go to the Thanksgiving dinner overly hungry. We often eat faster and certainly more when we are hungry. Nutrition experts recommend eating a wholesome breakfast and lunch on the day of Thanksgiving to avoid overeating at dinner.

2. Thanksgiving dinner does not have to be an all-you-can-eat buffet. Start your nutritious eating by filling your plate half with vegetables, one quarter with a lean meat and the rest with a starch of your choice. Eat slowly, savoring every bite and stop when you are full.

3. If you choose turkey-choose skinless-Your portion of turkey should be about 4-oz. By choosing skinless you are going to slash away some fat and cholesterol. Do this and save your appetite (and your calories) for the side dishes and desserts.

4. Choose your side dishes carefully-Watch your portion size and go for smaller portions. Not only does this cut the calories, but this way you can sample all the different foods. Also keep in mind that anything with a sauce, covered in cheese or topped with lots of butter means extra fat and extra calories. Moderation is always the key.