Nervous about splurging this Thanksgiving? No need to! We have a foolproof 4-step strategy on how to enjoy the day, without killing your diet. Written by one of our favorite nutritionists, Cynthia Sass on Shape.com.
It may be the No. 1 eating holiday, but it is possible to navigate Thanksgiving without depriving yourself or packing on pounds. Here's my 4-step strategy for lightening things up, without sacrificing your favorites:
Step One: Choose your splurge items first. Which dishes or desserts are must-haves and which are ones you can nix? On Thanksgiving, we tend to have a little of everything because well, that's what people do, or because it's there, but it's perfectly ok to skip the dishes that don't really do it for you. If you think, "meh," when you see sweet potato casserole or a buttered roll, just pass.
Step Two: Balance your plate. Holiday favorites such as stuffing and pie are typically high in calories and fat. To create a balance, whip up some simple veggie side dishes. Veggies are full of water and fiber as well as nutrients, so when they're not fried or doused in butter or cream sauce, eating them with smaller portions of heavier items can help prevent you from feeling stuffed, sluggish and sleepy.
Step Three: Slow down. Taking it slow can automatically help you eat less and feel more satisfied. Try to set your fork down between bites and stop eating periodically to share a story or catch up with friends and family. Some research shows that we tend to match the pace of our eating to the people we're eating with. This year try an experiment and become the pacesetter.
Step Four: Pay attention to your tipping point. If you eat with awareness, it's much easier to sense that moment when you feel perfectly full and satisfied. Even if the food is delicious and your plate isn't clean, honor that feeling and stop. Doing so isn't about deprivation or willpower, it's all about balance. If you typically overdo it, strive for balance this Thursday.
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