Making the most—and gaining the least—out of Thanksgiving dinner.
With pumpkin pie, roasted turkey, and an exhaustive lineup of sides, it’s no wonder why Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday to so many. Just the mention of the festive American holiday is drool inducing, but before you eat yourself silly, let’s consider some ways to help enjoy the feast, or any feast for that matter (Chinese Moon festival or Hanukkah, anyone?), without spiraling into a deep food coma and having to consequently carry your belly around for days to come. You want to make it out for Black Friday, don’t you?
UNSPLASH 🇨🇭 Claudio Schwarz | @purzlbaum1. Pace yourself
As much as you want to inhale your overcrowded plate of food, remember: marathon, not sprint. It’s a given that you’ll probably eat more food on the celebratory night than most other nights, so knowing this, take it easy! Which leads me to my next point…
2. Quality, not Quantity
I repeat: not quantity! Enjoy every bite you take and give yourself a chance to appreciate the taste of each dish instead of just stuffing up your already full belly. Use the more heavy offerings as your side dishes and load up on the veggies, they’ll keep you full without the flab. Also, do spend a lot of time chatting it up and playing family games–that’ll keep you from lingering around the table.
3. Pre-feasting Training
The holidays often mean fewer visits to the gym and yoga class. Instead of guiltily sacrificing your fitness for gluttony, why not have both? Remember, health and holidays are not mutually exclusive. With family and friends around, why not try out a new group exercise or power shopping sessions? You will feel a lot better come Thanksgiving day, I promise you.
4. Stop!
You only get to have your Aunt’s famous sweet potatoes once a year, and I know, I know, you have to have it while you get the chance. However, when you’re full, you’re full. Don’t let your eyes deceive you, your poor stomach can only do so much. Do remember the concept of leftovers, and how you can have your favorites for days to come.
Keep these tips in mind, but don’t let them put a restrictive damper on your fun. Enjoy your holidays to the fullest, and Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
