Dear Friends: Traditionally, Thanksgiving dinner goes hand-in-hand with a super-sized meal followed reclining (or napping) on the couch. Sound familiar? XO Fitness wants to help you enjoy a Healthier Thanksgiving Dinner If you’re in charge of dinner or helping to plan, keep these tips in mind (even if you aren’t in charge,# 3, #4, #6, #7 are key to your healthy Thanksgiving: 1) Schedule the meal earlier in the day.  Having the big meal at noon or 2 PM will give your body time to digest it before bedtime. Also, if you’ve finished dinner before dark you can go outdoors for some fresh air and possibly a walk. 2) Serve small dishes every hour or so. Another suggestion, turn Thanksgiving into an all- day celebration this will spread the calories out throughout the day and you’ll be less likely to feel over-stuffed. 3) Take very small portions. As you fill your plate, remember there are typically a lot more dishes on the table to choose from compared to your ordinary meal. With this in mind, take very small portions so you have room to “taste” everything. 4) Minimize the carb overload. Instead of eating sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, stuffing and rolls choose only one or two of these dishes.  It will save a ton of calories and you’ll feel less ‘stuffed!’ (pun intended!) By the way, making cauliflower mashed potatoes is a great alternative regular mashed potatoes! 5) Serve appetizers. Prior to the main meal, serve a colorful vegetable platter, delicious soup and/or salad. 6) Serve lots of vegetables. Offer two or three different types of vegetables at the table (and they don’t have to be heavy-duty casseroles…just simple steamed or roasted vegetables). 7) Drink water. Set out water glasses for everyone with dinner. Have a Healthy, Happy Thanksgiving! Ryan & Karin and the XO Fitness Training team