Tips to eating healthier during holiday party season
MIAMI - Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday party season, which means plenty of friends, family, food, and drinks.
Between the mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, and all that gravy, it's easy to overindulge. According to the Calorie Control Council, Americans may eat more than 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat on Thanksgiving.
Lisa Sasson, a registered dietitian and faculty member in the department of Nutrition and Food Studies, says there are ways to make healthier choices when it comes to your Thanksgiving celebration.
You can lower the fat, calories, and sugar in dishes by using fat free chicken broth and light sour cream. And stick to lighter appetizers, "like a vegetable platter and dips, even some kale chips, things that are healthy, filling, but won't weigh you down for the meal," Sasson says.
Be sure to eat a small breakfast or snack before the big meal.
"Because when you're famished and you're starving, you're saving all of your calories for the meal, you kind of lose your willpower," Sasson says.
When you are filling up your plate, load up with veggies. Keep starchy sides to the size of about a baseball, all combined. And opt for white meat turkey over dark.
And if you're thinking about seconds, take a break to let the meal settle. You might find you're already full and satisfied.
Experts also recommend getting plenty of exercise throughout the holiday season.