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STUFF TURKEY, NOT YOURSELF

 
Published Nov. 14, 2012|Updated Nov. 14, 2012

Q: I've lost some weight recently and I don't want to put it all back on during Thanksgiving dinner. Any tips on how I can lighten up without being a party pooper?

A: Some simple strategies will help keep calories in check while still enjoying your meal. (By the way, eat a quick and easy breakfast that morning to give you enough energy to last until turkey time. )

Turkey tactics

- Lay off the fried turkey and go for the traditional oven-baked.

- You can cut 10 calories and 2 grams of fat per ounce by forgoing the skin.

- Three to four ounces of turkey is plenty.

Sides scheme

- Survey your options before making your final decision; spend your calories on those dishes that only make it to the table once a year.

- Take 2 tablespoons of all your favorites, including cranberry sauce and gravy.

Desserts defense

- A sliver of pie is all you need.

- Use the 2 tablespoons rule if you need your pie a la mode.

Booze cruise

- Juice, alcohol and soda all have calories. Opt for water or seltzer instead. It can save you a few hundred calories.

Food Network Kitchens, Scripps Howard News Service