This time of year can be a challenge when trying to stick to a supportive nutrition plan. However, you CAN still enjoy the upcoming holidays with healthy Thanksgiving recipes that are both delicious and good for you.

I am eagerly anticipating another grain-free, dairy-free, and low-sugar Thanksgiving meal. These nutritious holiday dishes ensure you won't end up sleeping away the afternoon or craving simple carbohydrates for days.

By the way, the reason you feel so tired after a traditional Thanksgiving meal isn't the turkey; it's the excessive amounts of carbohydrates and gluten found in stuffing, mashed potatoes, rolls, pies, and other sugar-conscious holiday recipes.

The holidays often introduce foods not typically consumed year-round, like stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. While these are festive, they're not always aligned with healthy holiday eating...

I believe that the holidays aren't an excuse to indulge in processed foods filled with sugar, additives, and inflammatory compounds. Such choices can leave you feeling tired, moody, and craving simple carbohydrates. Moreover, a single exposure to gluten can impact your system for weeks!

Instead, focus on eating protein and non-starchy vegetables first. These clean eating Thanksgiving choices provide your body with the nutrition it desires. After that, selectively indulge in your holiday favorites.

Before you dig in, ask yourself, "Is this food I'm about to eat really going to satisfy me and taste incredible?"

If the answer is anything less than a definite YES, then choose not to eat it. In social settings, especially when alcohol is involved, we tend to be less mindful about our food choices. Take a moment to listen to your body; it's constantly giving you signals.

Only you can decide what type of indulgences you'll choose this holiday season and what negative effects you're willing to accept. For me, avoiding gluten is crucial due to its negative impacts, but I might indulge a little in dairy, accepting the temporary consequences because it's a rare treat.

I encourage you to think about how you want to approach food this holiday season and have a plan for your healthy Thanksgiving meal.

Our tradition includes Justin, Badger, Bucky, and me. I'll be preparing a traditional Thanksgiving meal that's grain-free and dairy-free. Since it's just the two of us (humans), I make a turkey breast in the crock-pot. This year's turkey breast is from Butcher Box, a service we've enjoyed since 2020. CLICK HERE if you would like to try it and get $50 off your first box.

Our sides include Bacon and Chive Sweet Potato Biscuits, Paleo Cran-Cherry Sauce, Sausage and Apple Stuffing, and a choice between a green bean dish or a Brussels sprout dish.

For dessert, I'm excited to make this Pumpkin Pie Cookie Crisp topped with coconut whipped cream.

You can also visit my Pinterest boards for more guilt-free Thanksgiving desserts and healthy Thanksgiving sides.

From our family to yours, HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

In Health & Happiness,
Janell Yule