Historically, Thanksgiving was a time to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and year. All those involved in the strenuous farming process could finally rest at the close of the harvesting season and spend time with family and friends, old and new. Nowadays, life is much busier and it’s easy to forget the roots of this important holiday.

This year, make new Thanksgiving traditions by thinking about where your Thanksgiving food comes from. Below are some tips for getting back to your roots this holiday season:

• Shop for fresh, local ingredients at your local farmers market.  Talk to the farmers about their crops and what went into the harvest season. You may have an interesting story to tell while you enjoy the meal with family.
• Use these fresh, healthy ingredients in your Thanksgiving meal. Try making cranberry sauce with real cranberries, rather than using a can. Maybe even try cooking a pie from scratch!
• The more color the better! Making sure your plates are full of color ensures there are lots of healthy nutrients. Your green color can come from collard greens or brussel sprouts; your orange from carrots and butternut squash!

What are your Thanksgiving traditions? What new traditions do you want to start this year? We wish everyone a healthy and happy Thanksgiving holiday!

Want to know more?

CDC: Taking Care of your diabetes at the holidays

Improving your eating habits: http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/losing_weight/eating_habits.html

USDA’s Know Your Famer, Know Your Food