Turkey pants and no we’re not talking about your weird aunt martha’s gaudy corduroys with the little felt turkeys sewn on.  We’re talking about the need to undo your pants after gorging on a huge Thanksgiving dinner.  We’ve all done it and regret it after.  Little do we know that during the yearly epicurean ritual, we may consume more than 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat. Yes my friend, that is the equivalent of eating more than 8 greasy hamburgers. And, that doesn’t even include breakfast, lunch, or late night snacking!  

I’ve enlisted the advice of Christina Meyer-Jax MS, RD, a registered dietician and wellness expert, from Minneapolis, with some need-to-know tips to keep you from wearing your “fat” pants while shopping on Black Friday. 

• Don’t starve yourself in anticipation of the big meal.  Eat a well balanced breakfast with high fiber items such as high fiber cereal, oatmeal and/or fresh strawberries. The fiber will keep you feeling full and satisfied — skipping breakfast will only make you more ravenous when you finally get to your turkey and fixings.

• Responsibly hydrate throughout the day and leading up to your final thanksgiving destination. Do keep in mind that many times we mistake thirst for hunger. A bottle of water in hand for sipping throughout the afternoon is the perfect way to keep your tummy satisfied – Smartwater (Vitaminwater) tastes pure and crisp and has added electrolytes like calcium, magnesium and potassium.

• Avoid the hors d’oeuvres. Stick to fresh fruits and vegetables if you’re going to nibble. Another tip is to stay away from anything creamy or greasy.  While hors d’oeuvres may be small they can be loaded with calories which will add up quickly (in addition to your dinner).

• Choose light beer, wine or enhanced-water over mixed drinks. Commercially prepared eggnog can contain up to 350 calories per 8 ounces, whereas 8 ounces of white or red wine is only about 150 calories.  Or, you can opt for more responsible holiday hydration (especially if you’re driving), with something like vitaminwater tastes great which will satisfy your pallet, is packed with variety of functional nutrients and has only a modest 50 calories per serving.  (Hangover Helper tip: alternate your alcoholic beverages with Vitaminwater –  vitamins, electrolytes and hydration is the perfect recipe for a headache-free morning).   

• Family style dining can often lead to overeating – but, you should avoid multiple servings.  Instead, make sure to scoop as many different colors  onto your plate as possible (as they say: “eat the rainbow”). If you make each portion small to you can sample more  — controlling your portion sizes is key.  Rather than round two, fix your second plate then wrap it up and place in the fridge for lunch tomorrow. You’ll feel better about yourself when approaching the desert table.

 

• Eat slowly – it takes an average of 20 minutes for your stomach to tell your brain that it’s full. The slower you eat, (and enjoy every bite of your food), the less likely you are to quickly gorge and over stuff yourself.

• Dessert, if you are going to indulge — have a ½ cup of ice cream, or raise your hand for that pumpkin pie (a small piece, of course).