Enjoying Thanksgiving Dinner....guilt-free!

Thanksgiving is just around the corner.  We are all excited for our favorite dishes which causes many of us to overeat at the holidays.  Here are a few tips so you can still enjoy all your favorites without the guilt and without adding a few pounds.

• Drink plenty of calorie-free drinks such as water, sugar-free drinks or unsweetened tea.  This will help fill you up so you do not overeat.

• Eat breakfast and lunch: coming to dinner hungry will cause you to eat fast and overeat. It takes 20 minutes for your brain to recognize that you are full! 

• Watch portion sizes: enjoy your favorite foods but take smaller portions.  Try to fill 1/2 the plate with veggies, 1/4 with white turkey meat without the skin and 1/4 with starches such as potatoes or stuffing. 

• Stick to one serving: if you still feel hungry, wait 10 minutes and then go back for seconds or skip seconds and save the calories for dessert instead.

• Take a walk: Don't run a marathon but weather permitting take a short walk after dinner to help you feel less stuffed (and guilty).

More to come on calorie-saving tips if you are hosting Thanksgiving!