10 Thanksgiving Wellness Tips for a Healthier and Happier Holiday Season
With the holiday season upon us, it’s easy to get caught up in the festivities and lose track of our health and wellness goals. But Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a time where we throw our healthy habits out the window. In fact, there are many things we can do to maintain our health and happiness during this festive time. Here are 10 Thanksgiving wellness tips for a healthier and happier holiday season.
1. Start your day with a healthy breakfast
Many people make the mistake of skipping breakfast on Thanksgiving to save room for the big meal later in the day. However, starting your day with a healthy breakfast can actually help you make better food choices later on. A breakfast high in protein and fiber can help you feel full and satisfied throughout the day, reducing your likelihood of overeating and making unhealthy choices.
2. Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, reducing your likelihood of overeating. It can also help keep your body functioning properly and flush out any toxins from unhealthy foods.
3. Plan ahead
Planning ahead can help you stick to your wellness goals during the holiday season. Before the big meal, decide on the portions of food you will eat and the type of food you will avoid. Maintaining control over what you eat can help you maintain your wellness goals.
4. Move your body
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a day of couch potato-ing. Plan a family walk or a fun outdoor game to get your body moving and burn off some of those extra calories.
5. Practice portion control
Thanksgiving meals are often huge and portions can easily get out of hand. Practicing portion control can help you stay on track with your wellness goals and avoid overeating.
6. Fill up on vegetables
Thanksgiving is often centered around heavy, calorie-dense foods. However, incorporating more vegetables into your meal can help you feel full and satisfied while also providing important nutrients and vitamins.
7. Practice mindful eating
Eating mindfully can help you enjoy your food more and be less likely to overeat. Take time to savor each bite and pay attention to how your body feels.
8. Avoid sugary drinks
Sugary drinks like soda, juice, and alcohol can be very calorie-dense and contribute to weight gain. Stick to water or unsweetened tea to reduce your caloric intake.
9. Choose healthier options
Many traditional Thanksgiving foods can be heavy and high in calories. However, there are also many healthier options available such as roasted vegetables, turkey breast, and whole grain rolls.
10. Remember the point of the holiday
Finally, it’s important to remember that Thanksgiving is about more than just the food. It’s a time to be grateful for the people in our lives and the blessings we have. Don’t let the food overshadow the true meaning of the holiday.
In conclusion, by following these 10 Thanksgiving wellness tips, you can maintain your health and wellness goals during the holiday season. From practicing portion control to filling up on vegetables and practicing mindful eating, there are many ways to enjoy the holiday without sacrificing your health. So this Thanksgiving, make a conscious effort to prioritize your wellness and enjoy the season in a healthy and happy way.
