By Janice Ferguson, Director of Nutrition Programs
Here are a few of my favorite recipes for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner without a ton of guilt!
I hear it all the time, this time of year when I ask my clients what’s coming up that may derail their progress over the next month. The answer is some version that includes, “THE HOLIDAYS.” It doesn’t have to be hard or stressful to have a Thanksgiving meal that you can enjoy and that aligns with your health and fitness goals. Here are a few tips to keep in mind next week as you celebrate with friends and family.
- Stay consistent with your routine. Plan your workouts, if you’re traveling, look for a gym to drop in to, or find a local park to get a nice run or walk in!
- Follow the Plate Method, as best you can. If you’ve never heard of this method, you’re in luck today! Here’s how it works: set half of your plate up with vegetables (think green beans, brussels sprouts, etc.). The other half you’ll divide into two halves. In one of those quarters, you’ll put your protein (aka turkey) and the other quarter you’ll put your starch (think stuffing, potatoes or whatever starch you may be having). I will include some of our favorite recipes at the end of this blog.
- Enjoy your treats in moderation. Do you want a treat? Great! Have it and then move on. This is a season of sweets and treats. Instead of feeling deprived that you can’t have something then overeating later, have a little bit then move on. It’s ok to enjoy a treat!
More Tips: Baked, grilled, and smoked turkey are healthier options than fried. Eat your veggies first, then your protein, and save the starchy carbs and dessert for last, so that you fill up on the healthy stuff and will be too full to overeat the foods that aren’t as high in nutrients and are higher in calories. Drink water with your meal. Put your fork down between bites. Be mindful and present with the company you are eating with. Enjoy the experience!
Here are a few of my favorite recipes for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner without a ton of guilt!
Butternut Sausage Paleo Stuffing with Apples and Cranberries {Whole30}
Healthier Green Bean Casserole
Homemade Paleo Cranberry Sauce
Cinnamon & Sugar Cinnamon Skillet Sweet Potatoes
Happy Thanksgiving!
