By Jeff Harrison
PHC General Manager

Thanksgiving is quite possibly my favorite holiday (even though I despise the cold weather!).  No gift giving, no stress (unless you’re cooking), enjoying good food and being with your family and friends.  Thanksgiving however doesn’t have to be a dreaded event, with loads of excessive calories and the beginning of a season filled with culinary temptation.  It is but one day on the calendar and not one day that will ruin all of your hard earned work from exercise. But if your eating habits are suspect all year, than the holiday can be a little daunting.  

Here are some Thanksgiving survival tips:

• Skipping breakfast and lunch is a sure recipe for overeating at the Thanksgiving table. Be sure to start your day with breakfast and if eating later in the day, a light lunch will deter from eating too much at dinner time.
• Focus on eating smaller amounts, drink lots of water throughout the day, and really enjoy dinner by chewing slowly.
• Control your portion sizes: Draw a 12-inch dinner plate in your mind and divide it into three-inch-sized circles with each one representing one food group: proteins, vegetables and starches. The key is to stay within your circle for each food group: If you like turkey and ham, fit a little of both in one circle.
• Be mindful of your alcohol intake: Mixed drinks tend to have high amount of concentrated sugar and quickly add empty calories. One glass of wine may be reasonable, but remember alcohol contains about 7 calories per gram, which makes it nearly twice as fattening as carbohydrates or protein.
• If you’re worried about the food choices, bring your own low-calorie dish or veggie tray to family gatherings.
• Be active: Go for a bike ride or a long brisk walk, take a Turkey Burn Class, or spend at least one hour at the health club to burn calories before the big Thanksgiving meal.
  

Wishing you and your families a very Healthy and Happy Thanksgiving!