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A season of gratitude
Having an abundance of food, family, and friends is something to be truly grateful for. This season, take a moment to reflect on all the blessings in your life. Expressing gratitude is associated with a host of mental and physical benefits. Studies have shown that feeling thankful can improve sleep, mood and immunity. Gratitude can also decrease depression and anxiety. Here are some other tips to having a healthy and joy-filled Thanksgiving.
Take small daily breaks
It may not seem like small moments of relaxation would make much of a difference, but stress adds up over time and the start of the holiday season can be overwhelming. When stress stays high, the body produces more cortisol, which can weaken the immune system and make it harder to fight infections. Simple, everyday activities can bring stress levels down. Try texting or calling a friend, stepping outside for fresh air, taking a nap, or playing with a pet. These little breaks give your body the reset it needs to stay strong.
Eat a healthy breakfast
While you might think it makes sense to save up calories for the big meal, experts say eating a small meal in the morning can give you more control over your appetite. Start your day with a small but satisfying breakfast so you won’t be hungry when you arrive at the gathering. Eating a nutritious meal with protein and fiber before you arrive takes the edge off your appetite and allows you to be more discriminating in your food and beverage choices.
Watch your portions
Thanksgiving tables are bountiful and beautiful displays of traditional family favorites. Before you fill your plate, survey the buffet table and decide what you’re going to choose. Then select reasonable-sized portions of foods you cannot live without. Don’t waste your calories on foods that you can have all year long, instead fill your plate with holiday favorites that only come around once a year so you can enjoy desirable, traditional foods.
Healthier swaps
Eating healthy through the holidays doesn't mean you have to miss out on some of the most enjoyable parts of the season. Even if you replace just one or two classic recipes with healthy Thanksgiving side dishes, you're taking a real step toward more nutritious, yet still delicious eating. See some healthier alternatives below.
Embrace walking and hiking
Walking is a low-impact activity that's easy to fit into any day. If you have a park or trail nearby, fall is the perfect time for a walk or hike. Consider scheduling regular walks with a friend or family member to make it a social activity too.
Fun runs
Fall is definitely "fun run" season. Many cities have a turkey trot run either on Thanksgiving or the day after. Consider this option as a new tradition to keep your family active and kick off the holiday season.
Remember what you're there for
Little choices do matter to your health over time, but holiday meals are more. Joy is a great component to a plate, especially when it comes to Thanksgiving.
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