Quick Tips from Baltimore Back and Pain Center for a Healthy Thanksgiving

2013 is flying by and Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Year after year most of us gain a pound or more during the holidays and unfortunately it generally stays with us. And some of us work really hard to get the weight off throughout the year, only to gain it back around the holidays.

Dr. Dorn and the staff at Baltimore Back and Pain Center want you to know that we are thankful for you, our Baltimore chiropractic patients. We want you to enjoy your holiday, so we share a few general and chiropractic health tips to do just that. With a little know-how, you can satisfy your longing for your mom's famous pumpkin pie and still enjoy a guilt-free Thanksgiving feast!

Here are Seven quick tips to a healthy and guilt-free Thanksgiving.

1. Don't Skip Breakfast
   It's not better to skip breakfast before the big meal. Starting your day with a small, nutritious breakfast can give you more control over your appetite during dinner.
2. Be Active
   Work out early in the day if you can, and take a walk after dinner. The walk will help you burn more of the calories you will be taking in. Breathe in the fresh air. Settle the food.
3. Watch Your Portion Sizes
   Manage your portions, skip the seconds. Leftovers are so much better the next day anyway! Eat more of a variety and keep the portions smaller, including dessert. Eat slow and savor each mouthful! And if possible, it's better to eat small portions throughout the day than it is to pack it all in one meal.
4. Go Easy on Alcohol
   Don't fill up on alcohol. Alcohol calories can add up quickly. And if you do indulge, please be responsible!
5. Focus on Quality Time with Family and Friends
   Thanksgiving is not just about the delicious food. It's a time once a year to celebrate and reconnect with family and friends. Enjoy spending quality time together, not just what is on your plate.
6. Don't Get Stressed Out - Laugh!
   Leave the drama on the TV. Laughter is good for the vascular system, the heart, and the healthy function of blood vessels. It's also contagious, so when things get a little tense, laugh! The holidays are a time to appreciate what you have, with the people you love.
7. Don't Worry ... Too Much
   If you overindulge, one day of super eating like one day of super dieting isn't going to miraculously change your life. So eat, nap, talk, laugh, play, take a walk, watch a game or parade, cook, bake and enjoy! We have lots to be thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Staff at Baltimore Back and Pain Center.