Wednesday, February 10, 2010

How to Avoid Extra Turkey Day Pounds

The number of calories consumed at an average Thanksgiving dinner is 3,000. Yes, you read it right. 3,000. That's nearly twice the number of calories you're supposed to consume in a whole day. To avoid a turkey day pig-a-thon, and the weight gain that comes with it, keep these nutritionist tips in mind.

1. Don't show up starving. Eat a protein snack like a low-fat string cheese or yogurt before leaving the house. The protein will help hold off hunger.

2. Wear your skinny jeans. The more snug your clothing, the more aware you are of your body. "Studies show that women who wear loose-fitting clothes eat more," says nutritionist Jana Klauer.

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3. Scan the table before filling up. You may love mashed potatoes and stuffing more than life itself, but choosing raw or grilled vegetables instead is the secret to staying thin—they keep your mouth busy and fill you up quickly, so you don't have room for that second piece of cornbread.

4. Steer clear of the cocktails. "Alcohol can enhance your appetite and make you eat things you normally wouldn't," says Klauer. Alternate a glass of wine or beer with nonalcoholic, noncaloric drinks.

5. Part with the leftovers. If you're the hostess, send each guest home with a dish that might tempt you for days following the holiday. (Better it end up on their butt than yours.)

Related: Eat More of These Foods and Weigh Less.

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Comments 1-10 of 35
  • Audrey's Avatar
    Posted by Audrey Fri Nov 20, 2009 3:18pm PST

    Why not lower your calorie intake a few days before and after and workout an extra half hour. the eat half the serving you would normal have and enjoy your dessert.

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  • GirlyGirl©'s Avatar
    Posted by GirlyGirl© Sat Nov 21, 2009 5:33am PST

    It's Thanksgiving! I'm pigging out! It's only once a year, why bother about eating only "grilled veggies" when there's good, homemade food right in front of you? Give it up for once!

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  • Billy Z's Avatar
    Posted by Billy Z Sat Nov 21, 2009 11:22pm PST

    send home food with your guests so you don't engorge yourself? WTF? You sound so hateful...why do you writers have so much hate inside you? You send out totally dysfuctional messages...I wish you little doinky kids would grow the frig up and start acting more mature...try being nice instead of such a witch...halloween is over...

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  • another hockey fan's Avatar
    Posted by another hockey fan Sun Nov 22, 2009 11:46am PST

    What's wrong with eating a little bit of your fave things instead of piling your plate high and/or going back for seconds/thirds? Also take your time eating. It's all about enjoying the company of family and friends and just because it's a holiday doesn't mean we should overeat. We can't avoid the calories obviously, so why not be more smart about it.

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  • killer bitch's Avatar
    Posted by killer bitch Mon Nov 23, 2009 3:16am PST

    Bring on the stuffing and fresh made bread and butter...yummmmmmmmmmmmmm.....who cares you can take a walk, after you wake up from your nap.....lol TURKEY DAY ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  • LS's Avatar
    Posted by LS Mon Nov 23, 2009 7:11pm PST

    It's ONE day out of the year...let it go!! You're going to pack on a few more pounds during the holidays, and that's always been expected. I just exercise and eat sensible breakfasts and lunches, since dinners tend to be the big family gatherings, hence lots of food. Honestly, I'd be miserable all holiday season long if I didn't indulge!

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