Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and delicious food, but it can also bring up health concerns. Whether you're curious about managing your diet, staying active, or dealing with holiday stress, we've got answers! Here are the top 20 frequently asked questions about Thanksgiving and health, with tips to help you enjoy the holiday while feeling your best.
Start with smaller portions, eat slowly, and focus on listening to your hunger and fullness cues. Drinking water before your meal can also help prevent overeating.
Consider roasted vegetables, mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes, or green beans sautéed with garlic. Swapping heavy cream for Greek yogurt in recipes is another great option.
Yes! Turkey is a lean protein packed with nutrients like tryptophan, selenium, and B vitamins. Opt for skinless portions to reduce saturated fat.
Rich dishes like creamy casseroles, sugary desserts, and processed meats can promote inflammation. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods to minimize this.
Try smaller servings or healthier options like baked apples, pumpkin mousse, or mini portions of traditional pies.
Sneak in physical activity with a family walk after the meal, join a local Turkey Trot, or do a quick at-home workout in the morning.
Yes! Try bodyweight squats, planks, or yoga stretches like Cat-Cow and Child’s Pose to loosen up and boost your energy.
Either works, depending on your schedule. A morning workout can kickstart your metabolism, while a post-dinner walk aids digestion.
Set realistic expectations, delegate tasks, and carve out time for yourself. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga can also help.
Yes! Overloading on sugar and processed carbs can lead to mood swings. Balancing your plate with protein, veggies, and healthy fats can help stabilize your energy and mood.
Drink water throughout the day, especially if you're enjoying wine or coffee. Herbal teas and sparkling water are also good options.
Plan ahead, prep dishes in advance, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from family or guests.
It's a mix of tryptophan in turkey, carb-heavy dishes, and the sheer volume of food consumed. Blood flow shifts to aid digestion, making you feel sleepy.
Eat slowly, avoid overeating, and limit high-sodium foods. A gentle post-meal walk can also ease bloating.
Yes, as long as they’re refrigerated within two hours of cooking and reheated to the proper temperature (165°F).
Involve them in cooking lighter dishes, offer fun vegetable sides, and set an example by balancing indulgence with nutritious choices.
Politely but firmly decline. Say something like, "Everything was delicious, but I’m full. Thank you!"
Practice good posture, take breaks to stretch, and avoid standing for long periods without supportive footwear.
Yes! Reflect on the year’s progress, but don’t stress over perfection during the holiday. Small steps, like staying active and eating mindfully, can make a big difference.
If you experience stiffness, aches, or discomfort from travel, cooking, or sitting, a chiropractic adjustment can help reset your body and improve mobility.
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate and enjoy life—but staying mindful of your health doesn’t mean missing out. Use these tips to keep your holiday happy, healthy, and balanced.
At Wellness Lane Chiropractic in Farmers Branch, TX, we’re here to help you move, feel, and live better year-round. Whether you need support before or after the holidays, give us a call!
Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!
