Thanksgiving Day has arrived, and the whole family is gathered around the table, joined by Grandma’s turkey. The kids are laughing, and the adults peacefully exchange views on various topics. It’s a perfect day!
In addition to the mandatory turkey, the potatoes, cranberries, sweet potatoes, green beans, and many other vegetables we love originated with the Pilgrims. So, in many ways, Thanksgiving retains the ambiance of the early celebrations.
10 good reasons to eat turkey:
- Turkey is believed to reduce the risk of cancer.
- Turkey lowers deficient cholesterol levels.
- Turkey strengthens the immune system.
- Turkey prevents cardiovascular diseases.
- Turkey increases testosterone production.
- Turkey promotes healthy bones and teeth.
- Turkey improves mood and reduces stress.
- Turkey facilitates digestion and transit.
- Turkey builds muscle mass.
- Turkey prevents insomnia and promotes sleep.
GOOD SOURCE: Protein – Vitamin B3 – Vitamin B6 – Vitamin B12 – Magnesium – Phosphorus – Potassium – Zinc. GLYCEMIC INDEX OF TURKEY: The glycemic index of Turkey is low: it is equal to 0.
Turkey is an excellent source of phosphorus, the second most abundant mineral in the body after calcium. This mineral is vital in forming and maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It is also involved, among other things, in the growth and regeneration of tissues, helps maintain blood pH at normal levels, and is a component of cell membranes. There are no contraindications for turkey consumption, and very few cases of allergies to this bird.
The best dishes for a successful Thanksgiving meal. The turkey: the star. A Thanksgiving-worthy turkey is prepared the day before for tender, juicy meat. Traditionally stuffed, it is cooked in the oven and served with cranberry sauce or gravy. It is impossible to celebrate Thanksgiving without turkey!
Turkey stuffing. A must at the Thanksgiving meal. It is a mixture of bread, vegetables, and spices. Other foods used for the filling include ground beef, eggs, onions, parsley, corn, and nuts. Cranberry sauce or gravy. The famous cranberry sauce is a condiment that goes wonderfully with turkey and adds flavor. You can make it with cinnamon, orange juice, lemon zest, or maple syrup. American cornbread. Baked or steamed, cornbread is served warm. It is easy to make, made from flour, baking powder, egg, and butter. It can be honey-based sweet, or savory.
Mashed sweet potato. Like stuffed turkey, cornbread, and cranberry sauce, mashed sweet potato is integral to any Thanksgiving meal. It’s a creamy mash with a bit of sweetness and flavor, with herbs and spices. Accompanying turkey with mashed sweet potato is a tradition dating back to the late 1700s. Roasted corn on the cob. It is served hot with fresh butter and sprinkled with salt, pepper, and spices for those who want them. Pumpkin pie. It is the typical American dessert to end a Thanksgiving meal.
Try some simple recipes. Instead of the obligatory green bean casserole with mushroom soup and fried onions, how about a green bean dish with a pinch of sea salt? Substitute sweet potatoes in butter with marshmallows and brown sugar for a more straightforward sweet potato preparation.
Watch portion sizes. By eating various foods, you get more nutrients and enjoy many flavors. Don’t waste your calories on foods you eat year-round.
Winning formula. Eating less and exercising more is the winning formula to avoid weight gain. Walk first thing in the day and after dinner.
Healthier. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or bringing a few dishes to share, more nutritious recipes are lower in fat, sugar, and calories. Try fat-free chicken broth to drizzle over the turkey.
Skip seconds. Try to resist the temptation to go back for seconds. Limiting yourself to one dish makes you less likely to overeat and have more room for a delicious dessert. White meat turkey, plain vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, gravy, and pumpkin pie are often the best bets because they are lower in fat and calories.
Savor slowly. Putting your fork down between bites is one of the easiest ways to enjoy and satisfy your food. Choosing fruits, vegetables, broth-based soups, salads, and other foods with lots of water and fiber contribute to satiety.
Watch out. Drink only one or two glasses of wine and enjoy sparkling water. This way, you stay sober and hydrated, and limit the calories from alcohol.
Family and friends. The main event of Thanksgiving is socializing with family and friends and spending quality time together.
