Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and, let’s face it, indulgence—but it doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health or energy. Instead of the usual post-meal slump from unhealthy foods and overeating, focus on mindful choices that keep the joy alive without the regret. Here are six practical tips to elevate your holiday meal with healthier, homemade alternatives and habits that promote better digestion and lasting satisfaction.
1. Ditch the Processed Stuff: Skip the boxed stuffing mix and canned cranberry sauce full of toxic ingredients like preservatives, seed oils and fillers and make your own. You can find recipes that are easy and include healthy alternatives like honey or maple syrup or a gluten free or whole grain bread.Yes it takes more time and effort but the trade off for your health is immeasurable.
2. Practice Portion Control: Just because the turkey is stuffed doesn’t mean you have to be. Eat smaller helpings of all your favorites until you’re 80% full rather than overeating everything and feeling miserable afterward.
3. Move After Eating: If you do overeat (and even if you don’t), resist the urge to nap on the couch and take a walk instead. This will help the digestion process and cut down on the bloating and other uncomfortable feelings.
4. Hydrate! Be sure to stay well hydrated with water throughout the day to help flush out any excess or bad stuff you might be consuming. Pro Tip: don’t drink much during the meal or immediately afterward because it dilutes your digestive juices and makes it harder for you to process all that food.
5. Time Your Meal Wisely: Plan to eat that big meal earlier in the day so that you have plenty of time and daylight to digest it all before going to bed.
6. Healthier Desserts:The turkey may be the star of the show but we all look forward to that pumpkin or pecan pie smothered in whipped cream just as much, if not more. You don’t have to skip it but remember that homemade is healthier, especially if you cut down on the amount of sugar or use a healthier substitute like Lakanto (monk fruit), coconut sugar or maple syrup. And of course, a smaller portion never hurt anyone.
By embracing these simple strategies, you’ll end the day feeling truly thankful for a celebration that’s as nourishing to your body as it is to your spirit.