Since I have been working on eating healthier and exercising regularly, I thought that I would try to involve my friends too. This year I am hosting Thanksgiving (maybe for the last time :)) so I decided to propose a Thanksgiving Challenge. Luckily I have nice neighbors who have decided they would amuse me and participate.
Eating Healthier Thanksgiving Day Challenge!
I know that Thanksgiving just comes once a year, and the mindset is we only eat this at Thanksgiving, so what’s the big deal? I just don’t like that rock in my stomach feeling after I eat. I’m turning 50 this year and I only want to feel good, not bad. I work out 4-6 days a week and don’t really want to set myself back from one indulgent meal. I don’t want to feel guilty and I don’t want to rationalize it to myself so I won’t feel guilty.
So here is the small challenge I proposed.
Thanksgiving Challenge
Come up with healthier recipes, no butter, no sugar, and as little processed foods as possible.
What we’ve done is find recipes that are healthier but still tasty. There is this misconception that eating healthier means your food will taste bad. The problem is that most Americans don’t really know what food tastes like anymore because of all the added salt, sugar, and preservatives. They add so much of these things that the fruit’s and vegetables’ natural flavors are lost.
Once you stop eating all the processed foods and start eating whole foods your taste buds and body will adjust and you’ll realize that most foods don’t need a bunch of added salt and sugar to taste good. You’ll also stop craving sweets. You may also find that you eat less food because what you’re eating is more nutrient dense and therefore you don’t need as much to satisfy your hunger. Your body will start craving healthier options too.
If you are new to eating healthier, then you may need some help getting started in finding the right mix of foods that make a delicious dish. There are several healthy cooking websites that I use and would recommend. My absolute favorite is Melissa Costello’s KarmaChow site. She is a vegan chef, but don’t be scared away by the word vegan. You don’t have to become one to benefit from their knowledge. And remember that they are able to make delicious dishes without using any meat or dairy products, which means they really know how to combine ingredients and flavors well.
I am still serving a regular turkey for Thanksgiving, but the side dishes and desserts will be an array of healthier dishes whether vegan or not. Besides, eating healthier doesn’t just mean eating vegan. Processed sugar is not an animal product, but it is still not good for you. Use natural alternatives and reduce the amount and you will start tasting other flavors as well.
To help you get started, here are just a few websites that have some great recipes to help you on your way to eating healthier!
100% Vegan, Healthy Happy Life Blog
I just recently found this website, lots of great healthy recipes
Melissa Costello’s website (my favorite!)
This website has an awesome recipe for homemade chocolate, only 4 ingredients!
I love this magazine! Many great recipes to help you eat with little processed foods.
You only have to look at her to see she knows how to eat clean. She looks fabulous!
I challenge you to try to eliminate at least 2 unhealthy foods from your diet and incorporate 2 healthy foods into your diet so that you will soon be on your way to eating healthier!
