How to Negotiate the Holiday Buffet

By Jenn Walters - DietsInReview.com

The Thanksgiving buffet can be a scary place -- no matter if you're the one making the meal or are just bringing a dish to share with family and friends. So here are a few tips on what to eat, what to avoid, and how to make the naturally healthy traditional Thanksgiving day foods even healthier!

Foods to Eat

Cranberries

: According to The Cranberry Institute, cranberries contain properties that can prevent the adhesion of certain of bacteria, including E. coli, associated with urinary tract infections to the urinary tract wall. Additionally, cranberries may also inhibit the bacteria associated with gum disease and stomach ulcers.

How to make it healthier: The closer you can eat these to their natural source, the better. Avoid that canned, sugary stuff and instead buy a bag frozen and cook them with just a little raw sugar and orange zest to bring out their natural sweetness!

Turkey: This lean protein is high in selenium, iron, zinc and B vitamins, and low in calories. Three ounces of white-meat roasted turkey without the skin clocks in at just 130 calories!

How to make it healthier: Avoid the skin (especially if you have a deep-fried turkey) because this is where the extra fat and calories are hidden.

Sweet Potatoes: Not only do they taste good, sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, iron and fiber.

How to make it healthier: Most of the time, sweet potatoes at Thanksgiving dinner come out super-sugary, buttery and topped with candied nuts and marshmallows. However, sweet potatoes are really pretty sweet on their own! Instead of covering these up with unhealthy toppings, consider serving plain baked or roasted sweet potatoes with just a sprinkle of brown sugar and a little butter. You won't miss the unhealthy extras...promise!

Foods to Avoid

Gravy: When it comes to health, there's just not much to like about gravy, as it's brimming with fat and calories.

How to make it healthier: Instead of dousing your turkey with the stuff, try a little of that healthy cranberry sauce we mentioned above!

Pecan pie: A normal-sized slice of pecan pie can click in at 500 to 800 calories!

How to make it healthier: Instead of going for this, have a small handful of raw pecans or have a small slice of pumpkin pie. You'll save hundreds of calories!

Potato casserole: Whether it's made with tater tots or chopped potatoes, most common potato casserole dishes are loaded with butter, cheese, full-fat sour cream and other calorie-laden ingredients!

How to make it healthier: Either make this yourself with roasted potatoes tossed with olive oil and herbs, or bypass entirely.

If any of these items are your holiday fave, but you're trying to watch your calorie intake, then allow yourself one or two small bites. Take the time to savor each bite. Often, a couple bites is all it takes to satisfy a craving.

Remember simple rules like filling your plate with fresh fruits and vegetables, not going back for seconds (or thirds) and drinking plenty of water throughout the day will make this a Thanksgiving to remember.

Get a jump start on your healthy Thanksgiving plans at DietsInReview.com:

Chef Rocco's Thanksgiving Recipes from Biggest Loser


Thanksgiving Healthy Recipe Guide

White Meat vs. Dark Meat: Settling the Debate



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