5 healthy Thanksgiving hacks

Thanksgiving is a holiday many of us look forward to every year. Between catching up with friends and family, eating amazing food and watching the parade, there’s a little something for everyone.

But Thanksgiving can also wreak havoc on our healthy habits. According to the Calorie Control Council, a typical Thanksgiving dinner can contain more than 3,000 calories. That’s 1.5 times the recommended amount of calories for an entire day!

Obesity is linked to at least 13 types of cancer, so it’s important to maintain a healthy weight and eat a healthy diet to reduce your risk. But never fear: we’ve got some healthy hacks to help you have a fun and festive Thanksgiving without expanding your waistline!

• Eat a healthy breakfast. Even on Thanksgiving it’s still the most important meal of the day—fuel up during the day so you won’t be as tempted to go overboard at the dinner table. Try our brown sugar oatmeal recipe for a warm and delicious start to your day!
• Lighten up your favorite dishes. You don’t have to cut out all of your holiday favorites. Instead, look for ways to lighten the recipe and cut some calories, like using applesauce instead of butter or oil, skim milk instead of whole milk and egg whites instead of whole eggs.
• Use a smaller plate. You can still try all of the different delicious dishes, but using a smaller plate will help you indulge appropriately without overdoing it. You’ll be surprised how full you feel without filling a huge plate!
• Opt for healthier treats at the dessert table, like a fruit tart instead of pie and ice cream. They’ll satisfy your sweet tooth without crashing your calorie goals. Check out these low-calorie dessert options!
• Get the whole family outside. For lots of families, playing a game of touch football is a Thanksgiving tradition, and we love the idea of getting active together! Regular physical activity helps reduce your cancer risk and burn some of those calories you’ll be eating.

We hope you and yours have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving. Today and every day, we are thankful for YOU!