Holiday meal words of wisdom
 

Hi there,

I just wanted to share some things that I plan to think about when it comes to these holiday feasts. I hope everyone can come here and post any words of wisdom. :)

It's good to be aware that statistically, we eat 40% more when we're with other people. Have you ever noticed how you're done eating and you see others still eating, so you go for seconds, or maybe even thirds? :o Keep that in mind and take the time to really chew your food until it's completely squished in your mouth.

Try to use a small salad plate for your entire meal. It is possible to trick your brain into feeling like you've had a lot more when really, it's just a smaller plate.

I will drink a lot of water before the meal. I will be picky on my splurges. I will fill up on salad (no dressing) and lean turkey meat and only sample the most appealing calorie laden foods. So, basically, I might just pick my favorite. If I must have the stuffing, then I probably will skip the pie, etc. I won't have cranberry sauce, for example or the potatoes (sweet or mashed) since I really don't think those will be calling my name. However, I think the stuffing is something I might just want to have. The cranberry sauce usually has incredibly high amounts of sugar since cranberries are very tart.

Finally, I will tackle this one holiday at a time. It would be nice, at the end of the season, to look back with pride and know that not only didn't I gain weight, but I actually lost some! ;)

Oh, and I will definitely have gum after the meal...when I know I should stop but might be tempted to continue.

So what are your words of wisdom?

Wow, that's so awesome! Thanks so much for sharing! :D Have a happy Thanksgiving!

I also eat from small plates and bowls. I prepare ahead of time to ensure my calories are fine with my plan. I sometimes take no more than a tablespoon of foods just to taste them, and serve myself larger portions of food that are on my plan.

Non food helps...I knit, so I bring my knitting to keep my hands and mind busy. I also take breaks in the bathroom, where I regroup my mind if it is straying from staying on the task of staying on my diet. A 5 min meditation really helps realign my thinking.

Happy Holidays!

Stay focused, be careful, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.