The first year on the FODMAP diet I distinctly remember being bummed about not being able to eat some of my favorite thanksgiving dishes like stuffing. It’s a dish I eat once a year and always look forward to it. Also, the soft and buttery thanksgiving rolls…how can I say no to those?!?!
It does get easier and now that I’m on my 4th year, I have it down! I put together my strategies for winning on Thanksgiving and most importantly the day after. No one has time to be in the fetal position the next day. We should be out Black Friday shopping!!! Just kidding, I’ll be doing all of my shopping online while my crazy family is out fighting the crowds.
THANKSGIVING WINNING STRATEGIES:
1) MOVE – this may not be the first thing you think about when it comes to Thanksgiving but going on a walk or doing some sort of exercise will help keep you on track for the rest of the day. My dad and I participate in the Sheltering Arms Turkey Trot every year. It’s the BEST way to start the day!
Turkey trot with my Dad
2) EAT – this may sound obvious but don’t fast until the Thanksgiving meal. Eat breakfast, light lunch, etc. This is so important to not show up to Thanksgiving wanting to stuff your face.
3) BE A SUPER GUEST (or host) – you’ll seem like a hero but also really helping yourself by offering to bring a dish or two. That way you without a doubt have something that is safe to eat. I also love hosting for this same reason. I can be in control of what’s being made and what’s being put into the dishes.
4) PACE YOURSELF – eat like you would as if it’s a regular day. You can always make a second plate to save for the next day if you’re worried about not trying all the goodies. I also like to wait at least an hour before diving into desserts in order to give my stomach some time to digest.
5) HYDRATE – remember how important it is to drink water especially if you’re drinking alcoholic beverages too.
Most importantly enjoy being with family and friends! I find the more chaos the better. Let’s hope I say that after thanksgiving this year where we are hosting 32 people… 😛
Also, looking for some delicious FODMAP thanksgiving recipes? Check out sourdough stuffing, roasted potatoes, butternut squash soup, and pumpkin pie!