Thanksgiving is a special time to offer thanks and gratitude, and it’s also a time where many of us put our healthy diets on hold and splurge. I mean, you’d be crazy to turn down your aunt’s famous pumpkin pie or your grandma’s mashed potatoes and gravy, right?! You are certainly grateful for those Thanksgiving dinner traditions.
But Turkey Day doesn’t just have to be all about stuffing yourself—leave that to the turkey. Why not start some of your own Thanksgiving traditions that include healthy activities for family members and friends?
From physical to philanthropic, here are 10 tips to stay healthy on Thanksgiving that surely will get everyone moving and engaged:
1. Run (or walk!) a turkey trot. You may just want to lie around in your PJs all morning, but why not get your day off to a great, heart-pumping start with a jog or walk. It’s also a good way to shed some calories before a big Thanksgiving meal. Participating in a local turkey trot or organizing one in your neighborhood can be a fun way to engage families, kids and even your furry friends.
Many organizations host turkey trots in local cities or you can organize one for your neighborhood and engage families and kids—even your furry animal friends. You may be surprised who will show up!
2. Lend a hand to others. This time of year is especially difficult for some families and individuals who don’t have the means for a Thanksgiving meal. Soup kitchens and meal delivering services typically have an overwhelming response on Thanksgiving, so they are always in need of an extra pair of hands. Volunteering not only spreads the spirit of the season but also helps you appreciate your own blessings.
Check out Feeding America for volunteer food bank opportunities in your area, ask your local place of worship or research online. Whichever one you choose, this activity will spread the spirit of the season.
3. Take a hike. In many parts of the country, the weather is beautiful this time of year. Hiking is a great way to enjoy fresh air and exercise. Find a local trail and go for a pre- or post-meal hike with your friends and family. Not only is this a healthy option, but it also allows you to connect with nature.
4. Lighten up a bit. Grandma’s mashed potatoes may taste better with lots of butter, but complement this dish with healthier alternatives. For example, try using sugar substitutes in place of sugar or fat-free yogurt or sour cream in dips and casseroles. Trading out candy corn and potato chips for healthier snacks can satisfy cravings without the extra calories.
5. Eat a healthy breakfast. Don't skip breakfast to save room for the big meal! Starting your morning off right with a balanced breakfast, like hot whole-grain cereal and an egg-white omelet with veggies, can help curb overeating later.
6. Play outdoor games. A great way to burn off your Thanksgiving meal and stave off the tryptophan coma is to engage in family-friendly games. Whether it's a game of football or a scavenger hunt, staying active will keep spirits high and bodies moving. Here are 20 Thanksgiving-themed games to try.
7. Walk it off. If games aren’t your thing, another way to work off that Thanksgiving meal is to take a stroll. Walking will burn some calories and help you unwind after being indoors. It’s also another way to get your recommended 10,000 daily steps.
8. Stay hydrated. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water, especially after eating sodium-laden foods. Staying hydrated helps suppress your appetite and keeps your metabolism functioning well.
9. Skip the seconds. Resist the temptation to go back for second helpings. Remind yourself of the delicious turkey and cranberry sandwich you can enjoy tomorrow. Limiting yourself to one plate helps prevent overeating and leaves room for dessert.
10. Share your gratitude. Thanksgiving is more than what’s on the table—it’s about the people around it. Take a moment to reflect on all you have to be grateful for, whether it's good health or quality time with family.
Thanksgiving is an ideal opportunity to not only enjoy delicious food but also to reinforce the importance of gratitude and health in our lives. Whether you choose to engage in healthy activities, volunteer or simply appreciate the moments with loved ones, this holiday can be fulfilling without compromising your well-being.For additional holiday reads, check out:
- Little Ways to Take Care of Yourself This Holiday Season
- Coping With Holiday Depression: 10 Ways to Brighten Your Season
- 13 Tips for Surviving the Stress of Get-Togethers with Your Family
- 12+ Recipes for a Keto-Friendly Thanksgiving
Content in this article was updated on October 7, 2024.
