Can You Eat Healthy During Thanksgiving? Yes, you can – here’s how

(WHNT) – It’s a dilemma every Thanksgiving: stick your face in or look vaguely at that Thanksgiving bird.

What about the third option – enjoy Thanksgiving turkey and all the trimmings, and do it in a healthy way.

Registered dietitian Lauren Dauro says it all comes down to a few simple steps.

Before meal

If you’re a family cook, think about substituting low-fat sour cream or roasting birds, instead of deep frying.

If you’re going to someone else’s party, take something you can enjoy in larger portions.

Before going to the party, don’t skip breakfast. Eat a food that is nutritionally balanced and high in fiber.

During the meal

Dauro says limiting and not eating certain foods can leave you feeling deprived and lead to you overeating later – she suggests being intentional and mindful instead. when you enjoy Thanksgiving.

She added that it was only for a day – not a whole week.

Fill up a plate of your favorite food and don’t come back for a few seconds.

When you’re eating, remember to sip each bite and take it slow — Dauro says the stomach takes 20 minutes to tell the brain that you’re really full.

Eat plenty of liquid calories, such as soda, juice, and alcohol.

Drink enough water during meals and be active throughout the day – keep the blood flowing.

Eat until you are 80% full; you’ll know because you’ll feel full, but not stuffed and not ready to fall asleep after the inevitable food craving.

After meal

Dauro’s suggestion – freeze leftovers and send them home with your family so you won’t be tempted in the days to come.

Most importantly, remember: Thanksgiving is about being together after a long time apart, more so because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

And these tips aren’t just for Thanksgiving either!

Dauro suggests not waiting until the new year to set fitness goals and finding a registered dietitian to help achieve those goals.