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Thanksgiving, Time to Fill Up Gas Tanks and Stomachs

Gas will cost you less, but more than last year

By Deb Alfarone

| Monday, Nov 23, 2009 | Updated 8:00 AM EST

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Thanksgiving, Time to Fill Up Gas Tanks and Stomachs

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Gas prices are dropping just in time for your Thanksgiving trip for mom's stuffing.

It will cost you a little less to fill up your gas tank this Thanksgiving holiday.

The average price for a gallon of regular gas in the U.S. is down almost four cents, according to the national Lundberg Survey.

On average, a gallon of unleaded will run you $2.81 in Connecticut, which is less than we were paying, but no bargain compared to last year’s average of $2.10. To check for the lowest available gas prices, check Connecticut Gas Prices.com.

AAA expects a 1-½ percent jump in overall holiday travel because fewer people are flying, so you might see some extra people to the left and right on the highway this Wednesday and Thursday.

Amtrak is also betting that more people will ride the rail and adding extra trains. You’ll have to make a reservation if you want to ride Amtrak in the northeast.

Mark Rafferty of Bristol says every penny counts.

“If they’re lower, it helps,” Rafferty said. “That means you can buy more things.”

As for filling up on Thanksgiving dinner and treats, the average person will eat more than 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat, plus whatever you pack on for breakfast and late-night snacking, according to the Calorie Counting Council.

To avoid filling out your pants, the American Heart Association recommends eating lower-fat and reduced-calorie foods for days in advance of the holiday feast, and for days after.

Prepare for handling your worst temptations. If you want both pecan and pumpkin pie, take a tiny slice of each, instead of an average serving. If you're cooking, provide low-fat foods or ask if you can bring a low-fat dish. After the meal, start a tradition. Take a break from driving and take a holiday walk.

Calories Count has an online calorie counter to help you plan how to burn off that meal.

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