Even the most health-conscious vegan can fall into the trap of overindulging during Thanksgiving. The excess of food, emotionally-charged get togethers, and sheer fatigue from holiday planning can send us all to the kitchen to eat more than we need. However, Thanksgiving or any holiday doesn’t have to equate to overeating. Here are three practical tips to help you have a thin Thanksgiving.
Even the most health-conscious vegan can fall into the trap of overindulging during Thanksgiving. The excess of food, emotionally-charged get togethers, and sheer fatigue from holiday planning can send us all to the kitchen to eat more than we need. However, Thanksgiving or any holiday doesn’t have to equate to overeating. Here are three practical tips to help you have a thin Thanksgiving.
1. Prepare for Thanksgiving by being well-rested
Sleep deprivation and general fatigue can lead to overeating. Your body is tired but your brain is saying “Eat Eat Eat” to help get your energy levels out of a slump. Make sleep your first priority during the holidays. Aim for eight hours every night. When you’re well-rested, you’ll naturally have more energy, a clearer mind, and be able to better weather any stressors that come your way — all of these put you at less risk of turning to food as a solution.
2. Exercise daily
Even if you can’t make it to the gym for your regular fitness class or workout, get in at least 20 minutes of movement daily. Exercise will not only help you burn extra calories, it will give you a feel-good endorphin boost and relieve stress. A great time to take a walk is when you feel your blood pressure rising and your cravings for comfort food start to mount; taking a walk will help you relax and give you something healthy to do instead of plow through a plate of pasta. Also, on Thanksgiving Day, go for a walk or recruit the family for a game of Frisbee or touch football in the yard, instead of sitting around the table picking on leftovers.
3. Moderation is key
Just because food is in front of you does not mean you have to eat it. On Thanksgiving Day, tune in to your taste buds and eat only the foods you really want to taste. If you don’t really like cranberry sauce, then don’t eat it just because everyone else has glopped it on their plate. But if that pumpkin gnocchi is calling your name, then have a small portion. Remember, holiday dinners typically have more choices than your everyday meals — the key to keeping your calories in check is by taking small portions. Eat slowly and stop eating when you are full. Don’t follow the “clean your plate” approach. Sit and enjoy the company at your table.
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