It’s that time of year when we are supposed to pause and be thankful, reflect, enjoy family and friends, and good food. For those of us who live in northern regions of the world, enjoying this season is a little easier because the weather and the day length lend themselves more to a warm fire and a good book. Even though my morning start time of 5am doesn’t change much with the season, I am getting more sleep, thanks in part to the shorter daylight hours and getting to bed earlier.
Anyone else out there, ever say, “Sleep is overrated!”? Definitely not teenagers! I will confess that I have at least thought that a time or two, but now that I am north of the half century mark, sleep is important and building that discipline going forward is new goal -trying to be asleep by 10pm, wish me luck!
Habits are so hard to break and bad habits are the hardest. Over time, those bad habits are more like addictions than habits. Eating is one of those categories that can be a sore spot for many of us. So much food and so many choices, and our will power to eat well and avoid processed or sugary foods can derail in spite of the best of intentions.
This week is one of those food “traps” that will be foisted upon Americans. Yep, Thanksgiving, a time to be thankful will be greeted with a barrage of pies, ice cream, jello, lots of gravy and, and, and. Just the sheer amount of food will be immense and the selection on most tables will be enough to feed a family for a week. Most of us are not going to be in control of how much food gets set on the table, but we can control how much food gets put on our plates.
Tristan’s plan to eat a successful Thanksgiving Meal:
To be a successful eater at the Thanksgiving table, I would encourage a few Non-Negotiables.
Choose to eat better so you will feel better and not bloated or stuffed. It is a choice.
Limit snacking and choose the fruit and veggie snacks.
Plan to eat at the main meal, whether that is lunch or dinner for your family, but be reasonable with your portions.
Just one plate, not one plate at a time, not heaping (wink, wink). Just one plate, it will be enough food. 🙂
Remember, dessert will be coming, so pick none or just one. I know this is a hard one, because there will be lots of selection and a sampling will be tough to turn down.
These simple non-negotiables or guidelines will help anyone enjoy family, friends and the Thanksgiving meal with energy and enthusiasm. Imagine feeling full and thankful this Thanksgiving. That’s my goal!
Enjoy!
Tristan
Farmer/Health Advocate