Looking forward to Thanksgiving but a bit concerned about all of the calories? No worries. There’s plenty of ways to avoid the calorie overload this Thanksgiving without missing out on great food and all of the fun.

1) Get physical.  Many towns and cities around the country host short runs called “Turkey Trots.” They usually benefit a charity and are very casual. If running is not your thing, you can walk it. It’s a great way to burn some extra calories before the big meal.

If you can’t find a Turkey Trot, make up your own. Encourage the family to join you for a walk, hike,  or a game of flag football.

Skiing, snow shoeing, and sledding are great activities before your Thanksgiving feast if you are in an area that has snow.

2) Eat breakfast. Beware of the temptation to skip meals to “save room” for the big feast. This not only slows down your metabolism, it increases the likelihood that you will seriously overeat during Thanksgiving dinner.

3) Be mindful of what you eat all day.  Appetizers are a great way to fuel your body while waiting for the main meal.  However, eat more of the veggie plate and less of the high calorie choices like chips and dip.

4) Eat normal portion sizes. Treat Thanksgiving like any other day. Avoid eating until you feel stuffed. You can always go back for more later.  And tomorrow’s turkey sandwich with cranberry dressing is something to look forward to.

5) Make conscious swaps! Consider trade-offs. For example, if eggnog is your thing, then you may want to have only a few bites of pumpkin pie. Spend the calories on the foods you’d rather not miss out on and leave out the ones that are not that important to you.

6) Trim the calories on the sides dishes. This is one of my secret weapons when it comes to party planning.  If you are the one doing the cooking, consider using lower calorie recipes for some of the traditional sides. Try websites like Cooking Light or Eating Well, or do an internet search for the “light” version of the recipes on your menu.

If family and friends are bringing dishes — ask those you know would be on board to do the same.  If you are bringing a dish, this is a perfect opportunity for you to introduce something new to your family and friends.

One tip when using “light” recipes.  Avoid using low fat or no sodium ingredients.  Use full fat and add the salt unless your doctor has advised otherwise.  The food will taste much better and our bodies need a healthy amount of the right fats and salt.

7) Keep the cocktails simple.  One of the best ways to maintain weight loss is to create ways to participate in the fun without feeling like you are sacrificing.  It’s entirely possible to consume alcohol and maintain your weight.  However, liquid calories can add up fast so it’s important to be conscious when choosing your cocktails.  Avoid high calorie mixed drinks by sticking with choices like wine, beer, vodka & soda, or whiskey served neat.  Alcohol can dehydrate you so make sure to drink two glasses of water for every cocktail consumed.

Here’s a fun and festive champagne cocktail that’s light on the calories and sure to be a hit.

FROZEN GRAPES CHAMPAGNE FLUTE

12 frozen seedless grapes

1/3 C chilled prosecco, sparkling wine, or champagne

1 cocktail stick

Add the grapes to a 3/4 (6-ounce) champagne flute.  Top with prosecco, sparkling wine, or champagne.  Serve immediately.  Use the cocktail stick to spear any grapes that remain in the bottom of the glass.  Makes one serving.  94 calories per serving.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Shared with much love,
Jennifer Ledford