The Dieter’s Guide to Surviving Thanksgiving
When a beloved holiday only comes once per year, it’s often difficult to avoid giving in to temptation. Unfortunately, indulging yourself too much during Thanksgiving can easily lead to the weight gain of one or more pounds. For many people, the extra holiday weight becomes a permanent gain. But if you’re on a monitored weight loss program in the Orlando, FL area, then you already have an edge. Talk to the specialist about your customized diet and how Thanksgiving can fit into it.
Create New Traditions
Your monitored weight loss program most likely already includes a physical activity component. Encourage your family to start a new Thanksgiving tradition of exercising together before the big meal. Some good group activities include backyard softball, soccer, or Frisbee. Kids might enjoy playing tag, rollerblading, or going for a family bike ride. If your family doesn’t share your enthusiasm for exercise, you can still set aside time for your own workout before meeting up with your family. Not only will your new tradition burn some calories, but it will help remind you to eat in moderation later in the day.
Eat a Protein-Packed Breakfast
Protein functions as a natural appetite suppressor. Instead of skipping breakfast entirely, prepare a high-protein breakfast to help you manage your appetite later in the day. Spinach omelets, hardboiled eggs, cottage cheese with fruit, and protein drinks can all be good choices.
Avoid Alcohol
It’s well-known among dieters that alcohol can add hundreds of empty calories to one’s daily intake. If it’s customary in your family to drink alcohol during Thanksgiving, consider getting a club soda with a splash of lemon or lime instead.
Bake Single-Serving Desserts
The turkey may take center stage on the Thanksgiving table, but the desserts aren’t usually too far behind. Instead of lining up whole pies and cakes on the buffet table this holiday, consider baking an assortment of single-serving selections. Every diner can choose his or her own mini pie or tort. Single-serving desserts can help you limit your calories and stay on your customized diet while still feeling satisfied.