Thanksgiving Tips

Thanksgiving Tips

o    Don’t forgo your exercise. That said, nobody wants to (or has time to) hit the gym on Thanksgiving Day. Instead, invite your guests to a walk before the meal and another walk before dessert is served. It will keep the dogs calmer, the kids a bit less bouncy and everyone with a healthy appetite.

o    Even though you may be up early cooking or doing some last minute tiding up, have breakfast. A protein shake is a good option, since you can easily whip one up and continue with your busy schedule. The protein shake will also keep you feeling satisfied, so you will be less tempted to graze on all the goodies before the Thanksgiving meal.

o    If this is your first Thanksgiving after the Lap-Band, Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Gastrectomy, consider serving yourself a little less than what you think you will eat. When socializing and focusing on the guests, you may not realize how much you have eaten and feel very uncomfortable. Serving yourself less will help you avoid this problem. Plus, this gives you opportunity to reach for seconds if you choose to do so.

o    Be realistic. Thanksgiving is not about worrying about how much protein you had and how many calories are in the mashed potatoes. Just try to stick to this simple rule: have some protein first. Reach for the juicier dark meat turkey first and add some gravy, if you wish. Enjoy the food and savor the wonderful smells and flavors.

o    Go easy on the wine and cocktails. Some patients, especially during the rapid weight loss phase, have a much lower tolerance to alcohol. A little can go a long way. Also a word of caution: Gastric Bypass patients could experience dumping syndrome from alcohol, especially when drinking hard liquors that are mixed in the cocktails.

o    Focus on your family and friends. Ultimately, that is what thanksgiving is all about. Enjoy the holiday and the time that you can share with your loved ones.