4 Easy and Healthy Sides to Add to Your Thanksgiving Table

The holidays can be filled with lots of laughter, love and joy, but also accompanied by hefty calories and temporary passes on healthy habits.

We connected with registered dietitian, Katlyn Cusack MS, RDN, LDN, to share some of her favorite thanksgiving sides and some healthy tips for this holiday season.

Easy Healthy Side Dish Recipes

Roasted Vegetables

Kale Salad

Pumpkin Soup

Spinach Dip

5 Tips for a Healthy Thanksgiving

1. Explore the Variety of Seasonal Produce: What foods come to mind when you think of Thanksgiving? Probably turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes, right? But, there's so much healthy seasonal produce available during this time of the year. Try featuring foods like squash, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, apples, carrots, cranberries, pumpkin and pomegranates on your Thanksgiving table.
2. Modify and Experiment: Try to alter your favorite recipes by replacing those ‘not  so healthy’ ingredients with healthier options. For example, using applesauce instead of oil can decrease the fat and calorie content significantly. Also, adding extra seasonal vegetables to any dish can increase the nutrient content of the food.
3. Make Time for Physical Activity: Thanksgiving Day is a great time to get outside with friends and family. Try a family football game or walk around the neighborhood. Exercise will help offset some of the calories consumed at the Thanksgiving table.
4. Watch What you Drink: You can really curb the amount of calories you consume by limiting sweetened and alcoholic beverages. Try seltzer and lime or water to help save calories for the feast.
5. Indulge a Little and Enjoy a Lot: Thanksgiving only comes around once a year, therefore it is important to enjoy, laugh and EAT! Embrace the cornucopia of delicious food and the value of time spent with family and friends.

Next Steps & Resources:

• To make an appointment with our dietitian Katlyn, or a dietitian near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.