Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends is one of life’s great pleasures. If you are concerned about staying healthy before you overdose on food and football, try these eight tips leading up to and during the big day.
1. Get Out and Volunteer
On Thanksgiving, we take the time to be thankful for what we have. You can take this further by giving others something to be grateful for. Grab a couple of friends or the kids and spend some time in the local food pantry or any charity you choose. During the holiday season, they can always use extra help. If you get the chance to work directly with people in need, seeing the happiness you can bring to those in need is enlightening and rewarding.
2. Eat a Good Breakfast
To avoid overeating at a big family dinner, start your day off with a healthy breakfast. Eggs, oatmeal, and fruit are all tasty, healthy options. Don’t try to skip breakfast on Thanksgiving, as it can make it harder to be moderate when you sit down at the dinner table later.
3. Drink Water to Stay Hydrated
Did you know you should drink between 11 to 15 cups of water each day? If there is ever a day to meet your full hydration quota, this could be it. Water keeps you hydrated, healthy, and full—one way to prevent overeating.
4. Be Social, Share Your Thanks
Once you start enjoying your Thanksgiving meal, resist the urge to plow through your food. Take this time to talk with the family and friends who have gathered. Good conversation also makes time for good digestion.
5. It’s Not a Race, Savor Every Bite
Enjoy the aroma and flavor as you taste those baked yams, turkey, and stuffing. Maybe even ask Grandma about the recipe. Thoroughly chew each mouthful, allowing yourself to enjoy it. A slow, thoughtful eating experience can contribute to a high level of satisfaction without going overboard on the serving sizes.
6. Balance Your Plate: Add Fruit and Vegetables
Turkey, potatoes, stuffing, glazed onions, and rich brown gravy are all delicious. Adding some green vegetables to your plate gives you a good balance of macro and micronutrients.
7. Resist Temptation: Skip Seconds
Don’t give in to others insisting you take another helping. When you feel full, sit back and join the conversation rather than overeating. Eating fewer calories during the main meal leaves room for dessert—in moderation!
8. Be Active Outdoors
Getting fresh air in your lungs is a great way to burn calories and encourage healthy circulation. Take the family or a friend and try any one of the following:
- Walking: Walking is a great way to get some space before or after dinner.
- Go for a jog: An early morning run can keep you healthy and refreshed for the day.
- Play outdoor games: Kids are often part of a family get-together. Get them out in the yard engaged in a game of tag, Red-Light-Green-Light, or Simon Says. If your party is all adults, flag football, playing catch, or any outdoor game can work.
- Take a hike: For the adventurous who happen to be near some good trails, a vigorous nature walk can help work up a well-deserved appetite.
Protect Your Health All Year Long. We’re Here to Help.
Just as you focus on your health goals around Thanksgiving, be sure your well-being is looked after all year with a supportive healthcare plan. Our agency looks forward to working with you to find the right benefits for your healthy lifestyle. Non-smokers and individuals in excellent medical condition may be eligible for reduced premiums. Give our office a call to schedule a consultation today.