Creating a Healthy Thanksgiving Meal to Encourage Good Habits in our Children
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, food, and of course, thanks. It can be easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit and overindulge. This is especially true when it comes to our children. They see all the tasty treats and their eyes light up! It can be hard to say no, but it's important to remember that we are teaching habits that will last a lifetime.
While it's tempting for the entire family to indulge in all of the holiday classics--the stuffing, the mashed potatoes, the pumpkin pie—it's important to be mindful of the impact that these foods can have on our health. We can still enjoy all of our favorite dishes while making healthier choices. By making a few simple swaps, we can create a healthier Thanksgiving feast that will leave us feeling satisfied and nourished.
That's why I'm sharing my top tips for creating a healthy Thanksgiving meal that will encourage good habits in our children. With just a few simple swaps, you can make a meal that is just as delicious as the traditional version but much better for you and your family!
The first step in creating a healthier Thanksgiving feast is to focus on whole, natural foods. This means supplies from your local farmers market or grocery store’s produce section. When possible, choose organic ingredients, as they will be free of harmful pesticides and chemicals. Since turkey is typically the star of the show on Thanksgiving, look for a brand that raised its turkeys without the use of antibiotics. These turkeys will be larger and more flavorful, so you won’t have to rely on heavy sauces or gravies to make them taste good.
If finding a turkey that meets these requirements is difficult where you live, I’ve always had luck with these national delivery options (none of these are affiliate links).
When it comes to side dishes, focus on fresh vegetables as opposed to processed ones. Try swapping out mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower. Cauliflower is lower in calories and carbs but just as creamy and delicious. If that sounds like blasphemy—you can always keep the potatoes on the table but lighten up your milk option and skip the butter in leu of olive oil or vegetable broth. Another great side dish swap is green beans for roasted Brussels sprouts. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and they make a great addition to any Thanksgiving feast! Plus--Roasted Brussels sprouts are a great source of fiber and vitamins C and K. And when paired with a lean protein like roasted turkey, they make for a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
In terms of dessert, opt for fruit pies over those made with custard or cream fillings. My personal favorite: cranberry crumble! This dish has all the flavors of Thanksgiving without being as heavy. Plus, it's packed with antioxidants from the cranberries which are always a good thing!
Finally, remember that moderation is key when it comes to indulging on Thanksgiving (or any day!). It’s okay to enjoy your favorite dishes and drinks in moderation. Just be sure to focus on filling up on healthy choices like lean protein, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains first. And don’t forget to squeeze in some physical activity throughout the day; a post-meal walk with family or friends is a great way to stay active and burn off some extra calories!
I hope these tips help you create a healthy Thanksgiving meal that your whole family will enjoy! Remember, small changes can make a big difference when it comes to teaching our children good habits. Happy cooking!