Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year. Pretty much every one of us celebrates the holiday by gathering with family and friends and while enjoying a great meal, share the love and feelings of good fortune that accompany the holiday.
Traditional foods include a bunch of proteins including turkey, ham, prime rib and for some, fish/seafood. However, the other “accompaniments” include lots of carbs including mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, stuffing, green bean casserole with fried onions on top and assorted other side dishes containing lots of calories.
What is a Thanksgiving gathering without desserts? These will include pies (apple and pumpkin most common), ice cream, chocolates, etc. And of course, alcohol containing drinks pre and post the meal.
Clearly, the protein offerings are very compatible with your weight loss goals BUT those side dishes and desserts will be quite derailing. Here is the approach I recommend:
Do NOT deny yourself of enjoying the variety of foods/desserts that look, smell and taste so good. HOWEVER, remain cognizant of the portions. Make a “tasting plate” of those carb/sugar containing side dishes and desserts, i.e. 1-2 tablespoons of each and place this on a small plate. By doing so, you will not deprive yourself of engaging in these great tasting foods while others are devouring them. Rather, you limit your portions of these as you should engage in BIG portions of the protein choices.
One of the major goals of losing weight is to become healthier to enjoy many more holiday celebrations in the years to come. By limiting the portions of derailing food/dessert/drinks, you will set yourself up to be healthy enough to keep the traditions going.
Our very best wishes for a super fun and healthy Thanksgiving to all of you and your loved ones!
And here is a really old one from Bing Crosby…”I’ve Got Plenty To Be Thankful For”…from Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn (White Christmas was the most popular song from that musical!)
