Do you ever wish that every day could be Thanksgiving? Think of all the delicious turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, tasty green bean casserole and mouth-watering pecan pie. While your mouth may be saying “Yes!” your waistline is calling out “Whoa!” — and for good reason. Thanksgiving can be a real challenge if you are watching your weight. But, you don’t have to sabotage your diet. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the buffet table without depriving yourself.

• Eat before you eat. — This may sound counterproductive, but if you eat a wholesome breakfast and lunch, you can avoid overeating Thanksgiving dinner later. 

• Go light on the calories. — Recipes can be healthier by making a few substitutions, such as fat-free chicken broth to make gravy or plain yogurt in casseroles. 

• One size doesn't fit all. — Avoid the all-you-can-eat mentality and limit yourself to smaller portions if you cannot control the ingredients used in a dish. 

• Don’t cover your whole plate. — There’s no need to pile your plate high with every food that is offered. Look over the buffet table first and then make your selections. 

• Eat s-l-o-w-l-y. — By savoring and chewing every bite thoroughly and putting your eating utensil down between bites you can enjoy your meal and be satisfied with one plate of food.

• Go for some fresh air. — Spread out the food and fun by going for a walk after your main meal and then having dessert later.

Remember to try not to be overly hard on yourself if you overeat. Thanksgiving is, after all, just one day and you can be careful about what you eat over the next few days, exercising enough to balance your overindulgence. For some tips on how to produce a festive meal you will be happy to serve on Thanksgiving Day, visit doctorshospitaldallas.com/thanksgiving.

Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake
9400 Poppy Drive
Dallas, TX 75218
214 324-6100

www.doctorshospitaldallas.com