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Research shows that Americans increase their weight by .2% over Thanksgiving and .4% over Christmas. While that weight gain may not sound like a lot the average person usually doesn’t lose the extra holiday weight they gain once the season ends. This weight gain brings an increased risk of numerous health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Which foods are healthy and which are unhealthy? According to the article, the author claims that Apple Cider, Sweet Potato Souffle, Green Bean Casserole, Stuffing, and Pecan Pie are all unhealthy. According to the same author, Herb Roasted Turkey, Sautéed Brussels Sprouts, and Roasted Vegetables are healthy. According to the article, the author claims that “calories, sugar, and fat don’t count once the season starts, our bodies can’t ignore them so easily.”
How to make your Thanksgiving dinner table a little healthier? “Lindsay Collier, MS, RD, clinical dietitian specialist of Westchester Medical Center, offered up a few tips for enjoying your Thanksgiving meal to its fullest while still remaining healthy,” Collier said for turkey remove the skin and stick to the breast. Collier said when mashed potatoes are made you should, “exchange for lower fat milk (skim or 1%) to decrease the calories and fat while preparing this dish.” Collier said, “Stuffing (even store-bought mixes) can be made healthier with the addition of fruits, nuts, and vegetables.” She also said to take advantage of butternut squash. For dessert, Collier stated, “Pumpkin puree used for pies or other desserts is an excellent source of vitamin A.” I believe this article is very informative, yet controversial. I do agree, and really like, Collier’s suggestions; Thanksgiving could be made healthy and it could be easy. I, therefore, do not agree with the author, I think Thanksgiving should be a holiday spent celebrating with family and friends; we should not be considering the way we look. I think we should use the suggestions Collier gave us, in order to avoid health issues. I also strongly believe that we should not be self-conscious about our bodies to the point of not eating. Eating whatever we want, but limiting our portion sizes seems like a good compromise. |
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