Close your eyes, breathe deep, and you can almost smell it now: the roasting turkey, buttery bread, fresh-baked pies, and all the other delicacies we indulge in during the Thanksgiving celebration with family and friends. But for seniors who struggle with the challenges of following a special dietary plan, such as dictated by diabetes or other chronic health conditions, Thanksgiving can feel more like a time of limitations and restrictions.
It is possible, however, to enjoy a healthy Thanksgiving without overdoing it. These tips, courtesy of the New Hampshire home care professionals at Live Free Home Health Care, are a great place to start:
- Start the day with a healthy breakfast. While it may seem wise to skip breakfast on Thanksgiving Day, to save room for the big meal to come, nothing could be further from the truth.
- Try something new. There are a variety of delicious, healthier versions of traditional Thanksgiving fare. Try mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes, or sweet potatoes roasted with cinnamon and olive oil in place of candied yams.
- Go easy on desserts. It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without those delicious homemade desserts, and as long as the dietary plan allows for it, a small portion of one or two favorite desserts provides the enjoyment of a sweet ending to the meal. Try to include some fresh fruit as well.
- Stop eating when you’re full. Since we tend to overeat at Thanksgiving more than at any other time, listen more closely to your stomach than your eyes. Although it’s certainly tempting to go back for seconds and even thirds during the holidays, our bodies let us know when we’ve had enough. Using a smaller plate is also a great way to limit portion sizes and prevent overindulgence.
- Don’t forget to exercise! Rather than slumping onto the sofa for the remainder of the day, get up and get moving to burn off those extra calories. Take a walk, or engage in some active games that the whole family can enjoy together.
For more healthy Thanksgiving tips, contact the New Hampshire home care experts at Live Free Home Health Care. We’re also on hand to provide assistance before, during and after the holidays to keep seniors healthy, safe and thriving. Just a few of the ways we can help:
- Picking up groceries and running other errands
- Preparing healthy, delicious meals in accordance with seniors’ dietary plans
- Providing escorted transportation to family get-togethers and other functions, ensuring the senior’s needs are fully met
- Serving as a friendly companion to keep loneliness away
- And so much more
Call us any time at 603-217-0149 to learn more.