By: Elizabeth Haaser

Thanksgiving is often a time when many people throw their nutrition to the wind and give in to the temptations to eat until they are as stuffed as the turkey served for the holiday dinner. But RBA is encouraging you to change that mindset of “future failing” by incorporating some new traditions and healthy mindsets this year!

The Holidays are all about being together with family, so why not sign yours up for a Turkey Trot? Thanksgiving is actually the busiest season for races, and this could easily be a new tradition.

Not in race-ready shape just yet? Try getting out to the stores on Black Friday and benefit from the exercise of walking through the shops (and perhaps working in a little karate when the crowds get too crazy).

Is your family big into sports? Prepare for the big football game by getting your family and the neighbors involved in a touch-football game. You can have everyone over for a light breakfast beforehand or even an early lunch after; it is important not to skip meals before Thanksgiving dinner, which is contrary to what some people believe. By skipping meals, you will be much hungrier and less able to know when you are full enough to stop eating when dinner rolls around. Also, rather than working out like crazy the day before or day of Thanksgiving in anticipation of eating a big meal, I’d recommend keeping your workouts regular. Often, by working out a little more, we rationalize eating a lot more in our minds. You might be better off simply getting a bit of a longer walk in or going a few extra minutes on the elliptical the next day, and remember to eat normally the following days! Do not restrict to “make up” for this one dinner.

Finally, remember that this is a fun holiday, and you should be able to savor (a word RBA is really loving this year) the foods you love most! So go ahead and have one serving of pumpkin pie if that’s the thing you most look forward to, but then keep it light on the bread or mashed potatoes. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing; you can mix healthy green beans with a bit of dessert, and feel good about your choices this Thanksgiving.

            Happy holidays!