Many people struggle to get through their entire Thanksgiving dinner without feeling bloated and full. If you don’t pace yourself, you may not make it past the appetizers! Here are some tips to slow down and enjoy every course, from the appetizers to dessert.

4 Tips to Pace Yourself During Holiday Meals 

1. Start With Breakfast

Many people think that skipping breakfast and lunch on Turkey Day will give them more room to eat dinner. However, this practice may affect your day by making you lightheaded, lethargic, and even more likely to get into arguments due to hunger. Eat as usual before the evening meal, so you have the energy to function throughout the day.

2. Don’t Nibble

It’s easy to get caught up in trying different dishes while cooking. However, those seemingly harmless bites can add up.

Instead, stick to your regular meal schedule during food prep, and only taste the dishes to check if you need to add seasoning.

3. Practice Portion Control

Many people load up their plates with heaping portions of every dinner offering. However, you may not have room for pumpkin pie and coffee after if you’re too full of turkey, mashed potatoes, and gravy.

Eat smaller portions of each dish, and see how you feel after finishing a plate. You can always go back for seconds of favorites, but leave room for dessert!

4. Get Moving

Many families take naps or lie around and chat all afternoon after eating Thanksgiving dinner. It's better for your digestive system if you get moving and start using those calories. After eating, rally everyone for a walk around the neighborhood. This low-key activity will kickstart your metabolism so you feel less full.

Those looking for a good meal and tasty dessert during the holidays should head to Ted’s Bakery in Haleiwa, HI. The family-owned and -operated restaurant offers delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner, and famous desserts like the chocolate haupia cream pie. Call the bakery at (808) 638-8207 to order takeout or a custom pie or cake, or visit the website for their menu.