With Thanksgiving just days away, now is the perfect time to commit yourself to a happy and healthy holiday season. While many of us may be concerned over the number of calories being consumed at the dining room table on Thursday, there are some other health and safety hazards you’ll want to watch out for. Additionally, we’ll share some ways to make your holiday a bit more health conscious this year. Check out some of the tips below to stay healthy and safe this Thanksgiving Holiday.

1. Food Safety

The last thing you want to spoil your Thanksgiving Day meal is food-borne illness. If you are the cook, always make sure you are continually washing your hands, as well as any surfaces you will be preparing food on. Be sure to keep raw meats away from ready to eat food. Furthermore, be sure that all the food is cooked to the proper temperature (usually an internal temperature of 165°F) and is being refrigerated within 2 hours.

2. Don’t Abandon your Healthy Lifestyle

We’re not saying don’t indulge a bit, but proceed with caution. If you are preparing the food, try using some low-fat products, or cutting down on the amount of fat and sugar added to your recipe. Here are some other helpful tips to make your meal more healthy:

• When eating, try using a smaller plate to control your portions.
• Don’t show up too hungry. Make sure you have breakfast.
• Go easy on the apps! Try and not overindulge on snacks and save your appetite for the main course.
• Whether or not alcohol is involved, it’s always a good idea to hydrate by drinking plenty of water.
• You should definitely still eat dessert- just enjoy it in moderation!

3. Make Physical Exercise Part of the Day

While sitting by the fire all day watching football and eating delicious food might sound like everything you ever wanted, do your best to get outside for a bit! Whether you decide to participate in a Turkey Trot (road race or fun 5k on Thanksgiving Day), a morning round of golf, or just throwing the football around in the yard with the kids, getting outside and moving is always a good idea for your health and well-being. If you’re worried about time, wake up early and go for a walk or jog with some family members!

4. Keep Happiness and Relaxation a Priority

Being surrounded by lots of family and tons of food can be overwhelming, and sometimes stressful (depends on your family!). Use some of these tried and true methods to feel calm and collected despite your surroundings.

• If you are the host of the party and feeling overwhelmed, try a simple breathing exercise to relax yourself. We know people are always saying “just take a deep breath”, which never seems to be helpful in the moment. However, anyone who has tried it can probably attest to its effectiveness! Try slowly inhaling to a count of 5 followed by an exhale to the count of 5 as well. Take 10 deep breaths this way and you’re on your way to restoring inner peace!
• Meditation is always a great option if you need to lower stress levels quickly. All you need is a couple of minutes and a quiet space. Look online for a quick 5-minute guided meditation to make it easier.
• Be sure to get plenty of sleep the night before so you are rested and ready for the day.

At the end of the day, Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy with friends and family. Above all we should celebrate our blessings and good fortune surrounded by the people we love. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t stick to your diet or exercise plan as you normally would. It’s always good to take time away from routine and just relish the moment!