1) Sign up for a Turkey Trot

It’s not too late! There are so many to choose from and registration is still available for most. It’s a great way to kick-start your metabolism in the morning and the best part is, it won’t take too long. You can run a 5K be back to your kitchen within an hour.   Grab your kids or a friend and go running!

Visit Running in the USA for a listing of all upcoming events in Connecticut.

2) Eat Breakfast!

We can’t stress this one enough. On big holidays people often skimp out on their morning meals in anticipation of the food ahead. Instead of saving calories, you’ll end up being hungrier and eating more than you would have if you just had breakfast. Plus, with your stomach grumbling by 1 PM you’ll fill up on appetizers and won’t be as hungry for the main event.

Our recommendation: have a balanced, hearty breakfast and still have your morning snack. Try two eggs or egg whites, a whole grain English muffin, and half an avocado.

Not celebrating the holiday until later in the day? Don’t forget lunch too!

3) Strategic Setup

It’s easy to go for seconds when everything is right in front of you on the table. If you’re hosting, or just helping a family member with setup, try to strategically place the healthier items in more accessible places and the less healthy items farther away. If a mac & cheese dish is front and center at the dining table, everyone will grab a second scoop rather than getting up for the salad you left on the counter.

4) Walk It Off

Start a tradition of going for a family walk after dinner. Let everything start to digest while clean-up begins then get outside and stroll through the neighborhood. The fresh air and movement will make you feel good and can ward off those post-dinner naps. The dishes will still be there when you get back home 😉

5) Don’t Skip Tradition, Just Make it Healthier

If you’ve worked hard all week (or did a morning turkey trot) it’s okay to indulge. It’s hard not to on the holidays! But there are plenty of ways to make traditional holiday foods a bit healthier. Mix some water into your egg nog. Use egg whites instead of eggs, or whole wheat flour instead of white. Adapt your recipes to lower fat, more balanced versions. Heck, you can even throw some unflavored protein mix into a dessert item to balance the carbs and sugar. Get creative.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving, a time with friends and family to reflect on all the good in your life. If you’re active or Instagram-ing your healthy dishes on Thanksgiving be sure to tag us and use the hashtag #livesculpted