We all think about food at this time of year and rightly so.  Food is festive, fun and best of all, it’s social.  Who doesn’t light up at the scent of roasted potatoes or a pie baking in the oven?  It’s joyful, delightful, and entertaining to eat.

So why not indulge, but in a mindful way?  That’s easier said than done, I know.  We live in a seductive eating environment, in which we are subconsciously drawn to eat even when we are not hungry.   What might help are simple swaps that you can make to help you be more healthful at this time of year and beyond . . .

Here are 5 of my favorite ways to nourish your body, mind and spirit: a.k.a. your total body! (Check out ways to nourish your total body in my book, Total Body Diet ForDummies!)

1. Add pulses (beans, split peas, chickpeas or lentils) to stuffing to replace fat-laden, ultra-processed meats.
2. Use low-sodium broth to cut some of the salt in gravy.
3. Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger into coffee to replace the sugar in your daily java. 
4. Enjoy sparkling water or wine spritzers instead of high calorie cocktails.
5. Puree artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers instead of cream-laden spinach dip.

That’s it.  You’ve saved calories and fat without sacrificing flavor.  Yaassss!  What are your favorite food swaps?  I’d love to know.

Happy & healthy Thanksgiving!

XOXO,

Vicki