Thanksgiving day is creeping upon us, and I can smell the doughy dinner rolls already. Football will be on all day, and the cranberry mimosas will be flowing.
Sounds like a perfect day really. But I set my fall intentions already and they don’t consist of being an over-indulgent couch potato, even if just for a day.
![healthy thanksgiving](https://beauty-and-the-babes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/pexels-photo-3071816.jpeg)
Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, togetherness, and, of course, feasting. It’s also a time that kicks off the season of excuses for why we should start “next year”. While the holiday is traditionally associated with indulgent meals and treats, it’s also an opportunity to prioritize your well-being by practicing a healthy Thanksgiving.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the art of balancing indulgence and self-care, allowing you to enjoy a healthy Thanksgiving that nourishes both your body and soul.
Healthy Thanksgiving With a Balanced Start
Begin your Thanksgiving day with a nourishing breakfast that sets a wholesome tone for the day. Opt for a balanced meal that includes fiber-rich foods, a protein source, and a medley of healthy carbs. This will help you curb overindulgence during the main feast.
Sweet Potato and Spinach Breakfast Hash: Ingredients:
- 1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dash of paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced sweet potato and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender and slightly crispy. Stir occasionally.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and red onion to the skillet and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
- Toss in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the spinach wilts.
- Create two small wells in the vegetable mixture for the eggs.
- Crack one egg into each well. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika (if using) over the eggs.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the egg whites are set, but the yolks are still runny. For firmer yolks, cook a bit longer.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve your sweet potato and spinach breakfast hash hot, right from the skillet.
The Power of Portion Control
Thanksgiving is all about abundance, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it sensibly! Embrace the power of portion control – savor the flavors and dishes, but be mindful of serving sizes to prevent overindulging.
Make a game out of it! Allow yourself to have whatever you want, as long as it fits on this portion control plate.
Healthy Thanksgiving by Staying Hydrated
In the midst of all the savory dishes and Aunt Jill’s famous spiked cider, don’t forget the importance of staying hydrated.
Drinking water not only aids digestion but also keeps your energy levels up throughout the day.
Practice Mindful Eating
Remember, Thanksgiving is not a race; it’s a time for savoring!
Practice mindful eating by taking each bite slowly, savoring the flavors and textures. Engage in conversation and enjoy the meal as an experience and a treat to yourself. Chew slowly with drinks of water in between. The food isn’t going anywhere!
-In fact, I don’t think I have ever been to a Thanksgiving feast where the food runs out!
Choose Desserts Mindfully
Desserts are a classic part of Thanksgiving. While you’re welcome to indulge, do so mindfully.
Opt for smaller portions or share dessert with a loved one, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth without overdoing it.
![plates with ice cream near figs and chocolate cakes](https://beauty-and-the-babes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/pexels-photo-6605961.jpeg)
Incorporate Movement Throughout The Day For a Healthy Thanksgiving
After the main feast, embrace the tradition of a leisurely post-meal stroll or a casual football toss. Not only will movement aid in digestion, but it also offers a perfect opportunity to connect with loved ones.
Even better, set up your backyard with Thanksgiving-themed games to get the whole family on board with moving around a bit. An outdoor bean bag toss, bowling, or corn hole are great ways to get the blood flowing.
Another great idea (for you, not for me) is to sign your family up for a turkey trot!
Express Gratitude
Sometimes it is easy to forget that Thanksgiving is not only about the food; it’s about gratitude. Expressing gratitude is a major form of self-care!
Take a moment to express thanks for the nourishing food, the company of loved ones, and the blessings of the year. A thankful heart contributes to a healthy spirit.
Journal about the day. Write down all the amazing memories you made on Thanksgiving day and express your deep gratitude for everything that made the day possible.
![brown ceramic cup beside notebook and pen](https://beauty-and-the-babes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/pexels-photo-2180092.jpeg)
Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, and part of that gratitude extends to taking care of ourselves. By embracing a balanced approach to Thanksgiving, you can enjoy the season’s culinary delights while honoring your well-being; creating a HEALTHY THANKSGIVING.
This year, let your Thanksgiving celebration be a testament to the joy of indulgence and self-care, creating a holiday feast that nourishes your body and your soul.
Happy Healthy Thanksgiving!
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