by Answer is Fitness on November 20, 2012
Thanksgiving starts off the season of over eating which goes through New Year's. Unfortunately, the majority of Americans are overweight. There is an obesity epidemic and two-thirds of all adults and one-third of all children in America are overweight or obese.
Unless we exercise regularly and eat right, many tend to gain weight all year long because of an imbalance between calories consumed and calories burned. Overeating during the holidays contributes to the general weight problem, but it is not the main culprit that most people think.
This holiday season, have fun but stay healthy -- here's how:
Whether your meal is in the afternoon or evening, it is important to not starve yourself in anticipation. Those start off with an empty stomach are more likely to overeat. Try to incorporate a mindful eating technique by eating slowly and chewing well, this will aid in digestion too.
Turkey - Food coma? Don't blame it on the bird. if you're feeling sleepy, chances are overeating is to blame.
A healthy portion of turkey is about the size of the palm of an "average" hand. Among the plethora of options at Thanksgiving, skinless turkey meat is a safe bet -- as long as it is not deep-fried.
Gravy- High in salt and fat, gravy adds moisture and flavor -- but not without consequences. Try measuring your gravy out onto a tablespoon instead of pouring it straight from the bowl.
Cranberry Sauce – Cranberries are also packed with phytochemicals that have been shown to promote heart and dental health as well as help prevent cancer.
Vegetables - Fill up on vegetables. Green beans, Brussels sprouts, and kale are great options as side dishes.. All three of these vegetables are packed with antioxidant vitamins A, C, and K.
Stuffing - Instead of making stuffing with bread, try substituting a nontraditional grain such as quinoa.
Desserts- Portions are key. But go for the pie. Canned pumpkin is a low-fat, low-calorie food, and with 40 calories in a half-cup, it still provides a good amount of fiber and vitamin A.
With help losing holiday weight, contact Answer is Fitness.
Huffington Post
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