Believe it or not, “holiday season” and “healthy eating” can co-exist quite happily. You don’t need to wait until the New Year to take your health into your hands. Start today, as you finalize your plans for your Thanksgiving Day meal.
Since turkey is high in protein and relatively low in saturated fats, the traditional big bird can still be the star of your Thanksgiving dinner. If you don’t like turkey but you do like meat, there are plenty of other meat-based protein sources available, including lean meats from traditional farm or, even better, game animals.
Meat from grass/pasture-fed animals is the healthiest choice. It’s much higher in healthy omega 3 fatty acids and relatively lower in the unhealthy omega 6 fatty acids than in grain-fed animals. Plus you don’t need to wonder or worry if the animal you’re consuming consumed GMO (genetically modified organisms) grains, which have been associated with increased incidence of spectrum autism, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, depression, infertility, behavioral disorders and numerous other mental disorders.
If you don’t eat meat, wild-caught fish or shellfish are a fabulous option. And “tofurkey” is a great choice for vegetarians and vegans, or anyone looking for a two-in-one alternative to the traditional turkey-with-dressing fare (as long as the source of protein, whether it’s soy- or wheat-based, is GMO-free).
Does your favorite recipe for stuffing include grains and/or bread? Although your stomach can’t digest gluten — whether you’re celiac, gluten intolerant, gluten sensitive, or none of the above — the good news is that there are a variety of healthy choices. I found one called Paleo Bread.
There’s an amazing array of colorful, yummy and nutritious fresh veggies available at your local market to round out and brighten up your Thanksgiving meal, such as: onions, carrots, celery, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, lettuce, fennel, Swiss chard, kale (my favorite!) cabbage, mushrooms, peppers, sweet potatoes and winter squash.
Corn is not on my list because 80 percent comes from GMO corn, which can wreak all kinds of health-related havoc on our bodies.
Serve your veggies raw, steam or roast them, or lightly sauté them in olive oil or coconut oil. I love coconut oil! It can sustain high temperatures without burning, adds great taste to veggies, promotes weight loss by increasing energy expenditure, and can even lower your cholesterol! Plus it combines healthy fatty acids and powerful medicinal properties, including its evidence-based therapeutic effects on brain disorders such as epilepsy, seizures and Alzheimer’s.
Yes, dessert can be a part of a healthy diet. A pan of homemade pumpkin fudge to nibble on would make a great seasonal choice. Chocolate is always in season and a great source of anti-oxidants — especially if the cocoa content is 70 percent or higher.
Healthy eating is your way to reclaim your health. Take it into your hands and turn your health around now!
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