The Turkey’s Not the Only Thing That gets Stuffed at Thanksgiving – Brian’s Blog

I've become a lot more aware of the calories I eat since I had bariatric surgery 18 months ago. Some statistics I read recently about Thanksgiving dinner real got my attention!

I should preface this by saying that had I not had Lap-Band surgery in 2013, I would be preparing to really dive into a traditional Thanksgiving dinner next week. I still like to eat, it's just that now that since I can't eat very much, I have to be careful about what it is.

Typically, I eat between 800 and 1,200 calories a day, mostly proteins. On days that I work out, I burn about 610 calories on the treadmill, with a net of 200 to 600 calories consumed. My metabolism is such that that amount of consumption keeps me going.

Some stats I read provided by the Calorie Control Council and nutritionist Justine SanFillippo realy got my attention!

The average American may eat more than 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat on this holiday. These figures don’t count breakfast or late-night snacking on leftovers, so many people probably eat well over 5,000 or 6,000 calories. No wonder many people’s waistlines expand on Thanksgiving!

 

Wow! 5,000 to 6,000 calories in one day. That much food would do me in! I don't do hard, physical labor every day like many people, so that much food would definitely pack pounds on me.

Consider some of the other treats we enjoy at this time of year.

Watch the alcohol – Excess alcohol adds empty calories and lowers inhibitions. Save those calories for your favorite slice of pumpkin pie instead.

 

Skip the eggnog – Eggnog is extremely high in calories – 1 cup could have 360 calories and 60g of sugar! Best to avoid this holiday drink altogether.

 

My kids were begging me for a gallon of eggnog at Costco last week. Have to rethink that.

I guess the message I take away here is take it easy at the table next week. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to be holier-than-thou. If you watch it next week, you'll be better off for it.