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TEXARKANA, Ark. –
According to the Calorie Control Council, Americans may consume more than 4,500 calories at their Thanksgiving dinner. It takes 3,500 calories to add up to a pound of weight. The turkey should be the only thing stuffed at Thanksgiving.
When planning the menu, focus on not only traditional holiday foods, but how they will be prepared. Throw in some healthy options. Not only will those with health issues appreciate it, so will everyone’s waistline.
Honestly, the Thanksgiving sides are what make the meal for me. The sweet potato soufflé, dressing, green bean casserole and all those other goodies. What can you do to enjoy these favorites yet still be mindful of calories? Choosing the correct serving size will be helpful.
The infamous green bean casserole has 230 calories per 1 cup, while everyone’s favorite candied yams come in at 206 calories per 1 cup. Let’s not forget the dressing. The average recipe comes in around 350 calories per 1 cup.
With these high calorie counts, you may want to stick to one serving of each and stay away from seconds. Your plate already has 786 calories and you haven’t even added the turkey, roll or cranberry sauce. Nor have you hit the dessert table featuring desserts only prepared once a year.
You can include numerous holiday foods in your menu that will please everyone by simply making small changes they likely won’t even notice, until they are less likely to let out their belt at the end of the meal. Just don’t tell them that you have made them a little healthier.
Thanksgiving dinner is a time of tradition as well as a time to be thankful. You can still enjoy your favorite holiday foods, or a healthier version. This Best Light Pumpkin Pie replaces the high fat crust with ginger snaps. That small change will save you about 100 calories per serving.
For more information, contact the Miller County Extension Office, 870-779-3609 or visit us in room 215 at the Miller County Courthouse.
By Carla Due County Extension Agent - FCSThe Cooperative Extension ServiceU of A System Division of Agriculture
Miller County Cooperative Extension Service400 Laurel Street, Suite 215 Texarkana AR 71854 (870) 779-3609 cdue@uada.edu