The Healthy Secrets of Thanksgiving Foods

On Thanksgiving, let’s face it: We want to eat what we want to eat. Still, even holiday favorites can offer more than just comfort, if you know which dishes to choose.

Feast on This

Thanksgiving is one meal where no one wants to skimp. It’s our day to eat all the sides, go for seconds, and graze the dessert table. But think of it as a great opportunity to sneak in nutrients along with the decadence. “Thanksgiving is about traditions, so don’t think it’s appropriate to turn it into a big diet fest,” says Frances Largeman-Roth, RD, coauthor of The Carb-Lover’s Diet ($10, amazon.com). “But it’s also about seasonal food, and many seasonal foods are very healthy and don’t need a lot of dressing up.” Whether you’re cooking the holiday meal or simply choosing from among the dishes, keep in mind these tips from Largeman-Roth and Cynthia Sass, RD, author of S.A.S.S! Yourself Slim ($16, amazon.com)—so you’ll get more out of your dinner than just the urge to take a nap.