Stay Slim and Healthy Through Thanksgiving

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The Thanksgiving table holds some of the most delicious food. Turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, cornbread, sweet potatoes and more. Each year many of us tend to overindulge in all of this yumminess. Below are some tips that allow you eat your favorite foods and not tip the scale afterwards.

• Don’t fight the feeling. During the holidays don’t deny yourself the taste of that delicious once-a-year meal because you’ll end up overeating down the line. At mealtime, simply grab a smaller plate, and practice portion control. Some of the season’s usual menu suspects are nutritionally dense. Pumpkin is an excellent source of beta-carotene and iron, cranberries contain two powerful flavonoids, turkey is rich in B-vitamins and zinc, green beans are simply loaded with vitamins from all over the alphabet, sweet potatoes provide us with beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, and chestnuts provide hefty doses of fiber, vitamin C, and folic acid. (Source: Keishia Kemp)

• Savor the moment. Hopefully you’re enjoying the time spent with your loved ones, so try not to race through your meal. It takes your brain 20 minutes to signal to your belly that you’re actually full. Furthermore, scientists have found that the brain chemicals signaling “pleasure” actually fire-off less, as we take in more. By relaxing and eating slowly you will essentially consume less calories than someone who rushes to clean their plate and you’ll enjoy it more. (Source: Keishia Kemp)

• Don't Over Exercise. Since this is a time of heavy eating and desserts are brought to work many think they need to go for harder workouts or start exercising now. Instead of overdoing it and risking an injury, follow the simple eating tips above and stick to your normal routine. If anything, get a buddy to help keep you on track. If you feel like you need extra exercise, go for a power yoga class or Pilates. 

• Have fun and be kind to you! It’s the holidays, so take time for yourself and enjoy the spirit of this season. Create new and active traditions with your family like sledding, ice skating, hiking, building snowmen or surfing if you’re a California girl. Finally, enjoy laughter with your family and friends not only because it’s fun but because laughter is a sure fire way to burn calories. (Source: Keishia Kemp)

What tips do you use to stay fit and trim during the holidays?

Xo,

Lynette