Thanksgiving Week Wellness: Nutrition Tips for Balance, Digestion & A Happier Holiday

Nov 24

Thanksgiving week is here — and for many of us, that means big meals, delicious desserts, and a whole lot of leftovers. But nourishing your body doesn’t mean saying goodbye to your favorite foods. With holistic habits and smart nutrition choices, you can enjoy the season and still feel great.

At Abundant Health Chiropractic in Willowbrook, IL, our focus is helping you support your body so you can celebrate without discomfort or digestive stress.

Here are our favorite wellness tips for this week:

🍽️ 1️⃣ Build a Balanced Plate

A healthy Thanksgiving plate includes:

• ½ vegetables — fiber for digestion + antioxidants
• ¼ protein — turkey for muscle + immune health
• ¼ starch — potatoes, stuffing, squash for energy

Enjoy the classics — just let colorful, real foods lead the way!

🥗 2️⃣ Start with Fiber & Protein First

Eating protein and veggies before diving into breads and desserts:

✅ Helps stabilize blood sugar
✅ Keeps you full longer
✅ Reduces overeating later

Plus, leafy greens support digestion — a big win before pie time! 🥧

🥛 3️⃣ Hydrate Before You Fill Your Plate

Thirst often feels like hunger.
Aim for a full glass of water 20 minutes before meals to support:

• Digestion
• Metabolism
• Joint + muscle function
• Nervous system health

Add lemon or electrolytes if you need a boost.

🧠 4️⃣ Slow Down & Savor

Your brain takes about 20 minutes to register fullness.
Pause, breathe, and enjoy the meal — this helps prevent the uncomfortable “food coma” slump.

Tip: Put your fork down between bites to give your body time to digest.

🚶‍♀️ 5️⃣ Move a Little After Meals

A short 10–20 minute walk supports:

• Blood sugar regulation
• Less bloating
• Better spinal mobility
• Overall energy

Great excuse to get fresh air with family!

🧘 6️⃣ Don’t Forget Mind-Body Wellness

The holidays bring joy — and sometimes stress.
Being tense impacts posture, digestion, and immune function.

Try:
• Deep breaths before meals
• Stretch breaks
• Less screen time
• More real conversation 🤍

Your body & mind deserve the love.

Celebrate Thanksgiving Feeling Your Best

You should feel energized during the holidays — not weighed down by digestive issues or back pain. Our team is here to help you stay aligned and supported through the entire season.