As we prepare to feast on Thanksgiving dinner, it goes without saying that this is one of the most caloric meals of the year. From sweet potato casserole to stuffing and butter-soaked mashed potatoes, our healthy lifestyle sure takes a hit this holiday. But let’s remember that just because our plates are piled high doesn’t mean our waistlines need to widen. Use these helpful and healthy tips to stay on track this Thanksgiving. You may be surprised at just how easy it is.

Don’t starve yourself all day. Eating breakfast may just be the trick. Something simple like a low fat Greek yogurt with almost and fruit or boiled eggs may just be the trick to keep your blood sugar level throughout the day, before the big feast. Not only will you will feel better physically and mentally all day, but you’ll also avoid over-eating with all the goodies and especially those sweet treats.

Toss the salt. The majority of the day’s offerings are already loaded with salt so avoid adding extra.

Sample the sweets, don’t indulge. Nobody wants a sugarcoated hangover. Keep it simple, sweet and just tantalize your taste buds with sample sizes of different treats.

Take a walk after the meal. A brisk Thanksgiving Day walk is just what the Dr. ordered! This is a fast way to burn those starchy calories and it will help with your digestion. A simple 15 minutes is all it takes to help you sleep better, boost your metabolism, help with weight loss, improve digestion, and maintain blood sugar levels. So grab your jackets and the whole family and take a fun family walk. This may even be a great opportunity to learn about our natural world since there’s always something new to explore in our wild and wonderful backyard.

And most importantly, Focus on family not food. Remember why we are together on this special day. This is our time to un-plug and reflect on the positive memories we’ve shared with each other throughout the years. Let’s show gratitude for our family and friends and keep it in the moment.

So remember, keep it light & fun this Thanksgiving. Let’s create memories of happiness vs. falling into food comas while we celebrate the good things life has to offer: family, health, friends, love, and, of course, food.

Have a question or concern? Contact the future doc (Dr. Tim Pence) at GreenbrierChiro.com.

“The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, diet and the cause and prevention of disease.” Thomas A. Edison (1847-1931)

– Dr. Tim Pence. LBSPY #71. November 2015