How You Can Eat Everything on Thanksgiving… and Not Feel Guilty!

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and you’re probably getting ready to celebrate with your family and friends – with great food.

This is the time of year when most people put on a few excess pounds. I mean, how can you avoid it? All that turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet-potato pie, green-bean casserole … it’s so easy to over-indulge now and worry about your waistline later.

But here’s some good news. You don’t have to pack on any pounds this Thanksgiving. You can stay on track and still enjoy your favorite foods. Here’s how:

1. Work out when you wake up. Before you sit down to watch the football games tomorrow or turn on the oven, do a quick workout. You’ll feel more energized, you’ll burn calories and you’ll continue to burn more throughout the day. Short bursts of moderately intense exercise work best. I suggest tying my MVP Kettlebell Boot Camp Workout. Do this fun and challenging workout and you’re done for the day!

2. Drink a protein shake. Immediately after your workout, drink a protein shake. Protein shakes are great meal replacements. And with Thanksgiving being such a busy day, you probably don’t have a lot of time to prepare a healthy breakfast. A protein shake will give your muscles the nutrients they need to rev up your metabolism. Plus, they taste great. Chocolate is my favorite.

3. Keep healthy snacks on hand while cooking. Instead of snacking on the rich food you’re cooking, put out a vegetable or fruit platter for munching. This will help you avoid temptation, so you can enjoy the food you’re cooking later without guilt. Want to dip your vegetables? Use some balsamic vinaigrette instead of a creamy dressing.

4. Try a little of everything. When it’s time to sit at the table for dinner, serve yourself a little bit of everything. But do your best to keep your plate 70 percent protein and veggies and 30 percent of the other stuff. This way you won’t feel deprived, but you’ll still stay on the right path.

5. If you’re gonna drink, drink in moderation! You know what? If you’re following the previous steps, you’re already way ahead of the game. And you deserve to enjoy yourself … hey, it is a holiday! The next day, just begin your day with a workout and tons of water and you’ll be fine.

I wish you the happiest and best Thanksgiving ever. And I hope these five tips will allow you to enjoy this amazing holiday without feeling the slightest bit of guilt!

Lots of Energy, Love, Peace, and Happiness!