Turkey Day Strategies

HOW TO ENJOY YOUR TURKEY DAY
WITHOUT all the GUILTY FEELINGS

No need to beat yourself up; just follow these ideas for a healthy balance, and a guilt free day.

Burn extra calories beforehand

1)If you have a workout routine, add a few minutes of walking or other cardiovascular exercise to it between now and Thanksgiving. If you don’t have a workout routine, a simple daily walk is a great thing to start.
2)You can also burn extra calories during your daily routine. For instance, take the stairs instead of the elevator; walk during lunch; park further away from the office or at the far end of the parking lot (usually a normal option this time of the year) when shopping; and walk in place, do crunches or lift hand weights while watching television.

Turkey Day eating strategies

We know this is a hard thing to do, but don’t come to Thanksgiving dinner with an empty stomach. Eat small meals earlier in the day so that you don't come to the Thanksgiving meal hungry.

Instead of trying to limit yourself to one serving, take a small serving so you can have seconds. Fill up on things like turkey, vegetables or other dishes that are lower in fats and calories.

Prioritize your desserts. Allow yourself to have dessert, but ask this: "What do I really like and where do I want to spend my calories?" Don’t just fill up the plate. If you like everything, take small (bite sized) portions of everything.

Finally, try to take a brief walk before Thanksgiving dinner and a short walk afterwords. It’ll keep your metabolism going.

Remember – don’t beat yourself up if you go a little overboard. Just work harder before and after the holiday! Remember this is not a good time to start a weight loss program.

The best idea is to simply work to maintain your current weight. If you manage that you are a winner.