Got Thanksgiving plans? Of course, you do. You'll get together with friends, family or both, either at their house or yours. A few people will work feverishly in the kitchen, while the others will gobble up appetizers and drinks. Finally, everyone will gather together in merriment, and the grand finale will happen: The serving of the prodigal meal. Most will go back for seconds, some will undo the top button on their pants, some will thank their lucky stars they wore fat pants. Then most of us will fall asleep in the living room. Sound familiar?
Thanksgiving -- 'tis the season for over-indulgence. But just how much over-indulgence are we talking here?
Thanksgiving -- 'tis the season for over-indulgence. But just how much over-indulgence are we talking here?
According to this Thanksgiving quiz, a typical Thanksgiving dinner has 4000 calories. Ouch. But it's OK because it's only once a year, right? Want to know how long it will take you to burn that off? Well, volunteering for dish duty or organizing a game of touch football isn’t going do it -- you'd have to run for seven hours, do 20 hours of yoga or lift weights for 10 hours.
Yes, it's only once a year, but there's no rule out there that says you have to overdo it. Here are a few tips that could potentially shave a digit off this gross number:
Yes, it's only once a year, but there's no rule out there that says you have to overdo it. Here are a few tips that could potentially shave a digit off this gross number:
- Make sure half your plate is veggies, preferably steamed or fresh ones. Go easy on the green bean and sweet potato casseroles.
- When taking turkey, go for the breast and skip the skin. If white meat isn't available, try the thigh.
- Go easy on the gravy and the stuffing -- they're both high in calories.
- When it's time for dessert, stick with tradition -- Pumpkin pie has less calories than pecan or apple.
Linda Cauger | Receptionist
NOTE: Information was taken from an article in “Healthy Living” by Martha Edwards, contributor.
