The average Thanksgiving dinner contains 3,000 calories.
Yowza. That’s a lot.
Fitness magazine pointed that out in an article they ran on their web site. Their strategy to burn off some of those calories was to run a Turkey Trot (a race held Thanksgiving morning). And that’s a great idea! But what if you’re not a runner?
My solution: start planning now, so you don’t eat all 3,000 of those calories.
Here are three simple tips:
1. Stick to your fitness routine. I know, I know – this time of year is insanely busy. Believe me, I get caught up in it too. But, sticking with your routine is one of the best things you can do, to manage the over-indulging that goes on this time of year, but, also to manage stress.
Even if you can’t do a full 30 minutes when you’re scheduled to exercise, at least get a couple of 10 minute shots into your day. You can find some suggestions on how to do that here. Sticking to your fitness routine will help ease the side-effects of indulging a little too much.
2. Make sure there are some unadulterated foods available. If you are the host of your meal, make sure to have some side dishes without sauces, or turkey without gravy. If you’re going to someone’s house, why not bring a clean appetizer, or side dish?
The word “clean” in the context of food means unprocessed, as close to nature as possible, and without sauces. You don’t have to be outspoken about why you’re bringing the dish you’re bringing. You can just offer to help by adding to the meal.
3. Don’t get lazy after dinner. Do something! Why not take a walk, or help the kids jump in the leaves? In our house, our tradition is to fire up the Wii and have a bowling tournament. You may not burn off every calorie you ate that day, but at least you’ll be helping your body digest everything, and you will be burning some of it off.
And remember, over-indulging for one day isn’t going to completely wreck your healthy eating. Don’t get too stressed if you just completely go off the wagon and eat everything you want til you’re busting. Just get back into your normal habits the next day.

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