While Thanksgiving is all about gratitude and selflessness, there’s no denying that food also plays a large role on Thanksgiving Day. While everyone’s family has their own traditions and recipes, there are a few common dishes that remain on everyone’s plate.

The Turkey

Just three ounces of turkey breast contains 26 grams of proteins and only 2 grams of fat. It’s an incredibly lean meat with the ability to make you feel full for an extended period of time. Be aware of the nutritional tradeoff when choosing between light meat and dark meat. While dark meat has more vitamins and minerals, it also has more fat and calories.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are undoubtedly one of the most popular side dishes in a Thanksgiving meal. While they are delicious and fluffy, there can be many hidden ingredients that make them unhealthy, with one cup averaging at around 175 calories. The key to mashed potatoes is to eat them in moderation. You can also try substituting the usual added milk and butter with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt to transform them into a much friendlier option.

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberries are a great source of fiber, which helps promote a healthy digestive system, and also contain high amounts of Vitamin C that supports a strong immune system. Cranberries are also low in fat and high in antioxidants. However, cranberry sauce can contain high amount of sugar. The best practice for this favorite Thanksgiving side dish is to forego the store-bought options and swap it with a homemade recipe.

Green Beans

Green beans are the superhero of a Thanksgiving meal, clocking only 31 calories in a one-cup serving, and loaded with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, C and K, folate, thiamin, riboflavin, magnesium and potassium. However, proceed with caution if transformed into a green bean casserole, as this once healthy veggie is turned into something very different. A one-cup serving of green bean casserole can contain 8 grams of fat and a whopping 142 calories!

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Understanding nutritional contents is the key to a healthy lifestyle and many years of celebrating Thanksgiving! Whatever you serve up this holiday season, we wish a day filled with love, laughter and gratitude from our Greystone family to yours.