Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving

10 Ways to Ensure You’ll Be Thankful You Don’t

Gain 5 Pounds This Thanksgiving

1. If you’re doing the cooking or contributing to the feast, be sure to make one or two healthy, veggie-based dishes without cream, breadcrumbs, or cheese. (Roasted Brussels sprouts, anyone?)

2. Eat a fiber and protein-rich breakfast. Don’t starve yourself all day in preparation for the feast. You’ll just eat more when you finally get to the table. (Eggs and a slice of whole grain toast, or Greek yogurt with berries?)

3. Drink lots of water throughout the day.

4. Take a walk with your family before and/or after the feast.

5. Take small helpings of starches (potatoes, stuffing, white rolls, etc.) and eat more of the vegetables and light (vs. dark) turkey meat.

6. Eat slowly! Think small bites and make sure to savor every one.

7. Don’t reach for seconds as soon as you finish your first plate. Enjoy the company, drink some water, and if you’re still craving seconds 20 minutes later, get a small portion of what you want.

8. Don’t eat until you are uncomfortable. Stop when you are 80% full. . . you have to leave room for pie!

9. If there’s any occasion to enjoy dessert, it’s Thanksgiving. Pumpkin pie is the healthiest choice, but take a small piece of your favorite and stop at 1 piece.

10. Enjoy it! Thanksgiving only comes one time each year, so don’t obsess over every calorie you consume. More importantly, follow these strategies and remember this is only one day. Get back into your healthy routine immediately on Friday. (Note: Leftover turkey sandwiches on whole grain bread are too good to pass up, so you can continue to eat that Thanksgiving treat until the bird is picked clean!).

Have a happy, healthy, delicious Thanksgiving!