Top swaps for a healthier Thanksgiving

The holidays are all about togetherness, sharing and traditions. But tempting side dishes and desserts can make it hard to stick to your healthy eating plan. Whether you're hosting or bringing a dish to share, these simple swaps approved by nutrition experts at Main Line Health will help you enjoy the season without overindulging.

Swap mashed potatoes for twice-baked or cauliflower mash

Instead of traditional mashed potatoes swimming in gravy, try these healthier alternatives:

• Twice-baked potatoes: Ready-made portions and customizable with added vegetables like broccoli for extra fiber, nutrients and reduced fat.
• Cauliflower-potato mash: A lighter, creamy option that cuts down on carbs and fat.

Bonus tip: Don't skip the potato skin! It's packed with fiber and heart-healthy nutrients.

Try this expert-recommended recipe

Creamy cauliflower pinto mash

Lighten up the green bean casserole

Traditional green bean casserole can be heavy. Instead try these alternatives:

• Fresh green beans: Tossed with olive oil and garlic or red pepper flakes, then topped with toasted almond slivers.
• Lighter green bean casserole: Substituting in reduced-fat and lower sodium ingredients easily make this holiday classic healthier.

Try this expert-recommended recipe

Heart-healthy green bean casserole

Choose pumpkin over pecan pie

Pecan pie is a delicious favorite Thanksgiving dish. But the large quantities of sugar in it override the benefits of pecans.

If you want to indulge, enjoy one slice of pumpkin pie with low-fat whipped topping. Or try these less sinful and healthier dessert alternatives:

• Apple crisp: A treat that brings the flavors of fall right to your table.
• Maple-spiced pecans: If you crave pecans, this dish has a hint of sweetness that doesn't negate the nut's fiber, protein and nutritious value.
• Pumpkin pie dip: Transform this autumn pie into a dessert dip that is low in saturated fat without losing the taste of a PSL.

Try these expert-recommended recipes

Apple crisp

Maple-spiced pecans

Pumpkin pie dip

Holiday food safety tips

No matter what's on your menu, make sure to prepare it safely. Foodborne illness is not something you want to share with loved ones at your Thanksgiving dinner.

Here are the most up to date safety recommendations for thawing a turkey, preparing stuffing and storing leftovers.

Next steps

If you are looking for a little more help with your healthy eating plan, Main Line Health offers nutritional counseling and individualized nutritional support. This added support can make it much easier to change your diet and maintain it long-term.

Join a nutrition or wellness event online and at Main Line Health King of Prussia.

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