SPOKANE, Wash. – As Thanksgiving approaches, many people are looking for ways to make their holiday meals a bit healthier. A local registered dietitian has shared some practical advice to help manage food choices during the festive season.
Brittany Thrope a MultiCare dietitian emphasized the importance of scanning the entire food spread before serving yourself.
“Especially if you’re going to a big holiday gathering where there is a full spread of food, really make sure you scan the spread before you go grab that plate,” said Thorpe.
This approach helps avoid overloading plates and needing multiple servings. Thrope also suggested going in with a plan to balance the meal.
“Always be thinking, how do I make this balance? Because holidays tend to be more starch and sweet, heavy,” she added.
A good strategy is to allocate one-third of the plate to protein, such as turkey or ham, and include vegetables like green beans or salad.
Using the “my plate” model as a guide can be another tool for a balanced plate. This model provides a visual representation of balanced meals, focusing on lean protein and fiber.
These tips can help individuals enjoy their Thanksgiving meal while maintaining a healthier diet. For more information on healthy eating and nutrition, consider consulting with a registered dietitian.
