How To Survive The “Food” Holiday
Thanksgiving is the only American holiday that is centered around food. Sure, we watch football and visit with family members, but nothing more than the FOOD is expected!
This can make it a difficult thing to navigate, especially for those on their health journey. But — you can change that! I’m not saying that you need to completely change the root of the holiday, but you can change what it means to you.
Here are some tips to keep in mind as we near the holiday season:
Focus on the company, not the food. While these foods may be some of your favorites, odds are, there’s nothing new about them. But, what’s new with your family? How have your siblings or cousins changed since last year? Channel your excitement towards interacting with your loved ones, and bonus! You still get to eat some of your favorite foods.
Pay attention to what you’re filling your plate with. We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again. Your holiday meals don’t have to be detrimental to your goals.
As soon as you get your plate, fill 1/2 of it with veggies. That fiber is going to fill you up & help with overeating!
Fill 1/4 with protein (turkey, ham, etc.).
Fill 1/4 with a starch — we can’t leave out those mashed potatoes & corn!
Enjoy desserts in moderation. After all, it is Thanksgiving! You don’t have to avoid that pie, but one slice will satisfy your sweet tooth. Take some time after your meal to digest, and then enjoy your favorite dessert to top it off.
Holidays are tricky, and we often feel like we have to “prepare our stomachs” or compensate afterwards. Give yourself some grace and recognize that even though you might be eating a different style than usual, it’s not the end of the world. This holiday only comes around once a year, so don’t spend it stressing! Shift your mindset to view Thanksgiving as time with family, not time with food.
Anyone with specific questions about their food choices for Thanksgiving should contact a Registered Dietitian, or you can ask your JTH nutritionist, Lainie.
