Tips to help you and your family enjoy a healthy Thanksgiving.
Inhale deeply, shut your eyes, and let your imagination conjure up the enticing aromas of Thanksgiving: the succulent roast turkey, buttery rolls, freshly baked pies, and all the other delights we eagerly savor during this season. However, for individuals contending with the complexities of adhering to a specialized diet because of diabetes or another chronic health issue, Thanksgiving might evoke feelings of restraint and constraints rather than the usual sense of celebration.
However, It is possible to enjoy a healthy Thanksgiving without overdoing it. These tips from our home care experts are a great place to start:
Begin with breakfast
Some people like to skip breakfast on Thanksgiving Day, to save room for the big meal to come. However, it’s always a better idea to have a healthy breakfast to prevent overeating later.
Try healthier versions of the classics
There are so many ways to create delicious, healthier versions of traditional Thanksgiving favorites. Try replacing mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower, or prepare roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon and olive oil instead of candied yams.
Don’t overdo the dessert table
It wouldn’t feel like Thanksgiving without those delicious homemade desserts! As long as the person’s dietary plan permits it, a small portion of one or two favorite desserts allows for the enjoyment of a sweet ending to the meal. Try to include some fresh fruit as well.
Listen to your stomach
We tend to overeat at Thanksgiving more than at any other time of year. Make the decision to listen more closely to your stomach than your eyes. It is certainly tempting to go back for seconds and even thirds, but our bodies will let us know when we’ve had enough. It can also help to use a smaller plate to limit portion sizes and prevent overindulgence.
Work it off afterwards
Instead of slumping into a recliner in front of the TV for the rest of the day, get up and active to burn off those extra calories. Go for a walk together, or initiate some active games the whole family can participate in together.
For more healthy Thanksgiving tips, reach out to Home Matters Caregiving Houston. We’re always available to provide helpful tips and to share more about our customized in-home care solutions that help older adults stay healthy before, during and after the holidays. Just some of the many ways we can help include:
- Running errands, like picking up groceries and prescriptions
- Preparing nutritious and appetizing meals in accordance with any prescribed dietary plan
- Providing accompanied transportation to family get-togethers and other functions, so that the person’s needs are fully met
- Offering companionship for conversations, games, and fun activities
- And so much more
Contact us at 832-371-6600 for a free consultation to share the challenges you’re facing, and to learn how our personalized home care services can help you.
Home Matters Caregiving proudly serves the Houston Metro area providing care for seniors wherever they call home.
