Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and delicious food—lots of it. From rich gravies to creamy pies, the temptation to indulge can feel overwhelming. But enjoying Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean derailing your health goals. Practicing moderation during the holiday allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without the post-feast guilt. Here’s how you can strike a balance between indulgence and mindfulness this Thanksgiving.

1. Start with Gratitude, Not a Grumbling Stomach
Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, so begin your day with a moment to reflect on what you’re thankful for. Pair that with a balanced breakfast to avoid showing up to dinner ravenous. Skipping meals earlier in the day might seem like a good idea, but it often leads to overeating later.

A protein-packed breakfast with some healthy fats—like eggs with avocado or Greek yogurt with berries—can help stabilize your blood sugar and keep you feeling full until dinner.

2. Scout the Buffet Before You Dig In
Before piling your plate sky-high, take a moment to assess your options. Identify the dishes you truly love and prioritize those. Do you crave your grandma’s sweet potato casserole every year? Enjoy it! But maybe skip the bread rolls you could have any time.

Pro tip: Fill half your plate with vegetables or lighter dishes, one-quarter with protein like turkey, and the rest with your favorite indulgences.

3. Practice Mindful Eating
Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to slow down and savor every bite. Instead of rushing through your meal, chew slowly and enjoy the flavors. Engaging all your senses while eating not only makes the food more satisfying but also gives your brain time to register fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

4. Don’t Fear Dessert—Share It!
Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, apple crisp—it’s hard to choose, so why not try a little of everything? Sharing dessert is a great way to sample all the sweets without going overboard. Consider splitting slices with a family member or serving smaller portions for yourself.

5. Stay Active
Burning off some calories before or after the feast can help you feel energized and balanced. Start the day with a Turkey Trot, a brisk walk, or even a playful backyard football game with the family. Movement isn’t just good for digestion—it’s also a great way to bond with loved ones.

6. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Amid all the excitement (and wine), it’s easy to forget to drink water. Staying hydrated can help control hunger and prevent overindulging. A good rule of thumb is to drink a glass of water before and after your meal to keep your body happy.

7. Be Kind to Yourself
If you overindulge a bit, don’t stress! One day of feasting won’t undo weeks of healthy habits. Moderation is about balance, not perfection. Get back on track with your routine the next day, and remember that Thanksgiving is about more than food—it’s about connection, love, and gratitude.

8. Plan Ahead for Leftovers
Thanksgiving leftovers can stretch the indulgence into the next week. Portion out leftovers into balanced meals, and freeze some for future enjoyment. This ensures you can savor the holiday flavors without feeling overwhelmed by endless temptations.

By practicing moderation, you can enjoy the joy of Thanksgiving while keeping your health goals in check. Remember, it’s not about restriction but about mindful choices that let you feel good both during and after the holiday. This Thanksgiving, let balance be the secret ingredient to your feast!