So we know Thanksgiving as the spark to holiday weight gain, but now that we’re in college it’s a whole different game. Weight gain season now starts at the end of August and lasts until May, and New Year resolutions don’t begin until the summer. Not living at home gives us college kids the freedom to eat, drink and party as much as we want to without mommy or daddy telling us to slow down. Going home for Thanksgiving is usually the wake up call to see our wider waistlines and bodacious bellies. So here’s a quick list on how to avoid gaining more weight while at home and taking advantage of the few days away:
1. White Meat over Dark Meat
In America, honoring the early settlers the last Thursday in November is a tradition. But unfortunately it comes with one of the most filling meals of the year. We all stuff ourselves course after course, and usually have to unbutton our jeans. I’m not saying don’t pack it in and enjoy yourself, but try to be smart with your choices. The easiest way to still enjoy turkey on Thanksgiving is by trading in that drumstick for a nice piece of turkey breast. White meat is leaner, healthier, and contains much less fat than dark meat. Some people claim dark meat tastes better, but it’s all the same bird. If you have the choice, go for the turkey breast rather than the leg – it’ll help your freshman fifteen!
2. Avoid the Carbs
One more tip about Thanksgiving dinner is to avoid the carbs! Most Thanksgiving tables contain stuffing, multiple types of potatoes, bread, more bread, and let’s not forget dessert. Pies are basically an American pastime, and they go great with cookies, cakes, and pastries. I know it all tastes so delicious, but portion control is key. Like Khloe Kardashian once said, “A moment on the lips is a lifetime on the hips.” Live by this! Limit yourself to one type of potato at dinner, and one type of carb at dessert. Substitute a dinner carb with a colorful arrangement of veggies (and no, potatoes do NOT count as vegetables in this case), and swap a cookie for some fruit. You can still treat yourself to some yummy carbs, but make sure you do it in moderation. Your pants won’t feel as tight by the end of the meal, and you’ll feel better about yourself after your tryptophan nap.
3. Don’t party
This weekend home is a great way to take a break from partying and enjoy some down time. You probably have gone out every weekend this semester since St. Louis weather has been great, not to mention WILD, Linus, semi-formal, and frat parties. Your body has had it and is most likely bloated from the drinking and late-night eating. Instead of going out HARD with your high school friends, try hanging out without partying. Catch a movie, grab some coffee, or just stay in. Use this weekend as a detox and let your body recover from a fabulous, yet fattening, first semester. Take the time to rest and come back rejuvenated and ready-to-go from break. Your body will thank you later.
4. Work Out with the Fam
As a WashU student it’s nearly impossible to have a steady workout regimen when studying in the library almost every second. We work so hard , our exercise usually falls second to pre-med requirements. What’s a better way to pass the five days at home than to hit the gym? I’m not saying go alone, because that’s what you do here when you can, but rather spend some quality time with your family while getting healthy. Try a spin class with dad, kickboxing with a sibling, or a walk with mom. Get active after your Thanksgiving meal and try to work off some of those calories (even though you only had ONE carb and ONE slice of pie, right?). This could be a great way to jumpstart your exercise schedule at school, and your family will thank you too. Use exercise as a way to benefit your body, your mind, and your short family time at home.
5. Kick Start a Healthier Diet
After your Thanksgiving dinner binge, try to reevaluate your eating habits. Think back to last Saturday night – oh yeah, you downed that half-and-half at 2:30am. Feeling guilty now, aren’t you? Take advantage of the home-cooked meals and try to jumpstart a healthier lifestyle. Remember to eat plenty of protein, vegetables, and fruit, and try to cut out excessive carbs, fried foods, and overly processed snacks. Use this short break from the Lou to indulge yourself in healthier eating habits. They’ll stick, even for a short while, until December break when you can start again. You’ll feel lighter, fitter, and your body will smile from the inside out.
So there it is! Five easy steps to taking advantage of your Thanksgiving break without packing it on. Just one of many things to be thankful for this year!