In America, we love to kick off our holiday season by living by the phrase of “eat, drink and be merry” and about a month later we switch gears and make New Year’s resolutions that involve losing weight, getting in shape, or both. I learned long ago that this does not need to be a cycle to follow. In the long run it is much easier to enjoy the company of friends and family, while maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet and plenty of exercise. By doing so, the start of the New Year is one of excitement for a promising future instead of a looming deadline of a “jump start".
The American Thanksgiving holiday was originally created to celebrate a successful harvest. Many of us are extremely fortunate in the United States to be surrounded by nutritious whole food. This year, take the lead of our early ancestors and celebrate the quality of products our farmers grow by acknowledging and providing healthful dishes for both you and your loved ones.
Salut,
1// Nutrition Trumps.
Turkey, the traditional entrée in most American homes fits perfectly into a balanced diet. Reach for the boneless, skinless turkey breast. A 3 oz. serving contains 26 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat and 0 grams of saturated fat. That's 8 percent more protein than the same size serving of boneless skinless chicken breast (1)!
2// Exercise.
Not only is exercise part of a healthy lifestyle, it is also a wonderful means to clear your head during the stress of the holidays. I love to put on my headphones and take a self inflicted "timeout" from social activities by going for a run in the snow. I always find myself with an elevated mood after I do so.
3//
Menu Choices.
If you are invited to another's home, always offer to bring a side dish. Not only is this a polite gesture, but than know you have at least one other healthy option at the table. If you are hosting dinner, include some healthy vegetable dishes in addition to your family favorites.
Below are direct links to healthy Thanksgiving recipes from a few of my go-to sources:
• FOOD & WINE (gourmet dishes)
• EATING WELL (“where good taste meets good health”)
• OH SHE GLOWS (plant based recipes)
4//
Maintain Healthy Eating Habits.
Always eat breakfast. Often times during the holidays, especially Thanksgiving, “dinner” is served mid-afternoon. In this instance, make sure to have a nutritious snack during the day to ensure you are not so hungry that you overindulge. And don't try blaming your mother that her house only has cookies and platters of brie and crakers to snack on...Bring your own! I travel with low glycemic varieties of KIND Bars and/or single serving Justin's "Classic" Almond Butter to ensure that I always have a healthy choice readily available.
5// Savor Rich Coffee.
Is pumpkin pie really a favorite of yours? For many of us it is not, nor is it worth the sugar and calories! My husband and I long ago exchanged traditional dessert for a rich cup of coffee or non-fat cappuccino, even at fine dining restaurants. There is something quite decadent and relaxing when you slowly enjoying this beverage along with conversation.
(1) http://www.eatturkey.com/consumer/healthyeating
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