Celebrate the Season without Overeating

Follow our top 10 tips for enjoying healthy holidays and you’ll have something to be thankful for long after Thanksgiving is over.

1. Don’t skip meals. Don’t fool yourself into thinking you’ll fast for a week then eat a big holiday meal. It’s neither healthy nor realistic. Eat a light breakfast, such as fruit and yogurt, or snack on a few whole-grain crackers before the meal to avoid going to the table famished.

2. Choose beverages wisely. Beverages such as soda or sugar-laden juice drinks can add a significant amount of calories to your holiday meal. Try sparkling water instead. It’s festive and its subtle flavor doesn’t compete with the food.

3. Slim down traditional favorites. Offer to host Thanksgiving dinner. You’ll have more control over the menu and can lighten up the standard fare. Instead of traditional candied sweet potatoes, serve plain baked sweet potatoes topped with a drizzle of sugar free maple syrup and some chopped walnuts. Prepare a couple of turkey breasts rather than a whole turkey, and remove the skin before serving.

4. Bring a dish. Whether you’re hosting the holiday dinner or have been invited somewhere else, make a healthy salad (think mixed greens, fresh veggies, dried fruit and a few nuts or sunflower seeds). That way, you know there’s at least one smart choice on the menu.

5. Use a smaller plate. Keep within the space on the plate without piling on foods. Start by filling half of your plate with good-for-you choices. Fill the remainder with smaller servings of more indulgent holiday foods. Remember, all foods are OK in moderation.

6. Get moving. Instead of taking a nap after dinner, take a walk or a bike ride with family or friends.

7. Do, but don’t overdo, dessert. Instead of indulging in a whole piece of pumpkin or pecan pie, split a slice with someone. Or if you have your heart set on three different desserts, enjoy just a two-bite serving of each.

8. Send food home with guests. When it comes to leftovers, everyone wishes they had hosted the holiday get-together. Sending guests home with leftovers means everyone will have a second helping and you won’t find yourself overindulging for days.

9. Take the focus off the food. While Thanksgiving dinner may be the most anticipated meal of the year, the holiday is about more than just the food. It’s a great day to give thanks and strengthen the family bond. Here are some ideas:

• Sign up the whole family to do a charity walk or run
• Volunteer at a food pantry or soup kitchen
• Watch football and play a game of your own out back
• Hike nature trails at a local park
• Play a tournament of board games
• Go to a movie or watch a holiday classic at home
• Take down your autumn decorations and start decorating for the December holiday season.

For more tips, information and healthy recipes, visit the health and wellness section of ShopRite.com