TOP 5 TIPS FOR A HEALTHY THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving only comes around once a year, so why not go ahead and splurge? Because gaining weight during the holiday season is a national pastime. Year after year, most of us pack on at least a pound (some gain more) during the holidays -- and keep the extra weight permanently.

But Thanksgiving does not have to sabotage your weight.  With a little know-how, you can satisfy your desire for traditional favorites and still enjoy a guilt-free Thanksgiving feast. After all, being stuffed is a good idea only if you are a turkey!

Tip #1 - Get Active

Create a calorie deficit by exercising to burn off extra calories before you ever indulge in your favorite foods. We you get up in the morning, get in at least 15 minutes of exercise. Here is a list of activities you can do from home.

·    Take a walk outside or run in place at home.

·    Do 15 minutes of jumping jacks while watching your morning news.

·    Use an exercise for a little while in the morning and a little while in the evening.

·    Use a free smartphone app or online exercise video.

·    Rake leaves or shovel snow.

·    Walk the dog.

Here is a quick 15 minute workout. 

Tip #2 - Eat Breakfast

While you might think it makes sense to save up calories for the big meal, but eating a small meal in the morning can give you more control over your appetite. Start your day with a small but satisfying breakfast -- such as an egg with a slice of whole-wheat toast, or a bowl of whole-grain cereal with low-fat milk -- so you won't be starving when you arrive at the gathering.

Tip #3 - Portion Control

·  Thanksgiving tables are bountiful and beautiful displays of traditional family favorites. Before you fill your plate, survey the buffet table and decide what you're going to choose. Then select reasonable-sized portions of foods you cannot live without. Don't waste your calories on foods that you can have all year long. Fill your plate with small portions of holiday favorites that only come around once a year so you can enjoy desirable, traditional foods.

·  Skip the Seconds.

Try to resist the temptation to go back for second helpings.Leftovers are much better the next day, and if you limit yourself to one plate, you are less likely to overeat and have more room for a delectable dessert.

·  Choose Wisely.

While each of us has our own favorites, keep in mind that some holiday foods are better choices than others.White turkey meat, plain vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, defatted gravy, and pumpkin pie tend to be the best bets because they are lower in fat and calories.  The good news is if you keep your portions small, you can enjoy whatever you like.

Tip #4 - Water and Alcohol  

Don't forget those alcohol calories that can add up quickly. Before you start your holiday festivities, drink a full glass of water. This will help suppress your appetite for both food and alcohol.

Tip #5 - Be Realistic

The holiday season is a time for celebration. With busy schedules and so many extra temptations, this is a good time to strive for weight maintenance instead of weight loss.

Shift from a mindset of weight loss to weight maintenance. You will be ahead of the game if you can avoid gaining any weight over the holidays.

And finally Thanksgiving is not just about the delicious bounty of food. It's a time to celebrate relationships with family and friends. So enjoy your friend and family and have a great Thanksgiving.