With Thanksgiving right around the corner, it is a good idea to start planning for the day now. When figuring out travel plans, the dinner menu, your grocery shopping trip, and how to keep Aunt Dee away from Grandpa Bob the last thing you need is to be worrying about how to keep your health in check!

At True Citrus, we understand. We've come up with some tips that will not only get you through the holiday season, but make it healthier and more enjoyable than ever!

How to Stay Healthy and Happy This Thanksgiving

• Start with a solid breakfast.
  You might think about skipping breakfast since you'll be eating a big meal later in the day, but don't! Choose a nutrient-rich high protein meal and you won't go into dinner starving (and ready to eat the entire turkey).
• Create calm.
  Thanksgiving day can be very stressful. Starting the day with a calming practice like meditation, or even going for a quick run first thing will help lay the groundwork for a successful and positive day.
• Sneak in substitutes (and veggies) to recipes.
  Make a big delicious salad with all the fixin's in place of a creamy casserole. Choose a dessert that contains fresh fruit. Use True Citrus spice seasonings in place of salt. Add roasted butternut squash to stuffing. Substitute a head of cauliflower for half of the mashed potatoes. Making conscious choices to build a more nutrient-dense meal will keep you healthy without sacrificing flavor. Want to cut out even more calories? Try some of these substitutions.
• Limit (or go without) alcoholic drinks.
  A lot of empty calories come from alcohol, so there is no need to add more to an already rich meal. You'll be less likely to overindulge without alcohol reducing your inhibitions. Include some fun mocktails with True Citrus, like these. Your guests wont even miss the alcohol!
• Drink plenty of water.
  Staying well hydrated will aid in digestion, and keep you from reaching for a glass of wine or beer. It'll also help keep your appetite in check.
• Eat what you love, leave what you like.
  You don't have to load up your plate with everything on the dinner table, just because it's there. If you're crazy about green beans, and only kind-of like sweet potatoes then leave the latter. You'll eliminate the extra calories, and enjoy more of the foods you love.
• Keep moving.
  Staying indoors will make you more tempted to graze, even when you're already stuffed. After dinner, suggest that everyone go for a walk or start a game of catch in the yard. If its too cold to go outside, begin a game of charades. You'll be less tempted to nap, and expend more of those calories!

Most importantly, remember that this is a time of year for celebration - not guilt. Enjoy the day with your friends and family, and try some of these steps to make it a little healthier.

Happy Thanksgiving!