The excitement of a day off. Contagious laughter of family and friends. Intoxicating aromas coming from the kitchen. Holidays can create a euphoric feeling and since eating is fun too, we nibble, nosh, dip, scoop, and overindulge – oftentimes before the main meal is even served. Thanksgiving tests even the strongest willpower. Here are six tips to help you stick to your TAIslim Challenge goal and avoid overdoing it on the ultimate day of food.
- Eat breakfast and/or lunch – Don’t starve yourself all day thinking you’re saving room for the big feast. You’re not. You’re just increasing the probability of overeating because you’re likely to be over-hungry. So, if you’re having your Thanksgiving at midday, be sure you eat breakfast. If it’s in the evening, be sure you eat lunch or have a snack in the afternoon. Plus maintaining your regular meal routine will keep your metabolism in check.
- Avoid snacking – Minimize day-long munching by choosing what you want to nibble on, put it on a small plate, and refrain from going near the snacks again. Day-long snacking adds up fast and it’s easy to lose track of how much you’ve consumed.
- Focus on family and friends, not food – Sure, Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy a bounty of fabulous food, but it’s also time to relish the people in your life. The main event should be socializing with family and friends, not salivating about what you can scoop onto your plate. Plus it’s rude to talk with your mouth full, right?
- More water, less alcohol – Not only does alcohol add calories, it makes you eat more. Drinking lots of water throughout the day and during your meal will lower the risk of overeating. If a cocktail or brewski is on your Thanksgiving menu, try alternating regular or sparkling water between alcoholic drinks, so you stay hydrated.
- Prepare your place just once – One plate, one helping. Try to exercise portion control: one serving of mashed potatoes the size of a medium apple, and one 3-4 ounce serving of turkey approximately the size of a deck of cards. Make your plate colourful with plenty of veggies. Skip the seconds and give your brain time to get the message that your stomach is full.
- Savor every flavor – Eating slowly − putting your fork down between bites and tasting each mouthful − is one of the easiest ways to feel satisfied with one plate full of food, experts say. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, broth-based soups, salads, and other foods with lots of water and fiber add to the feeling of fullness. Plus, what’s the hurry? There’s no need to gobble down all your food in minutes. Preparing your meal likely took your family and friends, or maybe even you, a good chunk of time. Slow down, relax, and enjoy! Learn more about the TAIslim 90 Day Challenge.
