Thanksgiving is generally associated with family, food and being full. There is nothing better than sitting around the table with your loved ones, sharing a decadent feast. Many people go a bit overboard at Thanksgiving and eat way too much. This year, you can still indulge in the decadence, but practice portion control and try preparing Thanksgiving favorites with a health-conscious approach.
Turkey
Turkey doesn’t need to be smothered in gravy to sustain its tantalizing taste. Turkey is a healthy protein source and is full of folic acid, vitamin B, zinc and potassium. When making your turkey, avoid frying and eat white meat to cut calories. Abstain from eating the skin for a more healthful alternative.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are called sweet for a reason. They are sweet enough alone, so hold the marshmallows. This vegetable gem is full of fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. Since sweet potatoes are so filling, a little goes a long way. Prepare as a soup or try roasting them with apples and herbs is a great way to add this staple into your Thanksgiving menu.
Cranberries
Cranberries are known for being an excellent source of antioxidants which fends off disease, and because they are full of fiber, they can help lower cholesterol. Instead of dousing these berries with cups and cups of sugar, relish their tartness and consider adding them to your stuffing or using them as a salad topper.
Stuffing
Stuffing, a Thanksgiving favorite, lives up to its name and can stuff you full of healthy nutrients. By tweaking your recipe, you can take the guilt out of enjoying this special treat. Use whole grain bread as your base to incorporate fiber, B vitamins, vitamin E, and magnesium. A low sodium broth as a butter substitute can cut calories while still maintaining its moistness. As for the filling, consider adding carrots, celery, onions, garlic, nuts, and herbs galore to make this the ultimate healthy gem.
Pumpkin
It’s not Thanksgiving without a piece of pumpkin pie. This savory vegetable is packed with vitamin A and fiber. By preparing the pie with non-fat options (like non-fat cool whip) and keeping portion control in mind, consider this pie an enchanting delicacy. But if you really want to be good, make a pumpkin soup instead.
Red Wine
Toast to health and family with red wine a heart-healthy, antioxidant rich drink. Again, keep in mind serving size and liquid caloric intake. And for the kids consider low-fat milk or apple cider for a healthy alternative.
Be a conscious eater this Thanksgiving and remember to enjoy, appreciate, and savor both, your healthily prepared food, and spending time with your loved ones. Cheers.
Dorn, Emily. "10 Healthy Holiday Superfoods." FitnessMaganize.com. http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/healthy-eating/superfoods/healthy-holiday-superfoods/
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