3 Simple Tips for a Balanced Thanksgiving Feast (Without Overthinking It)

3 Simple Tips for a Balanced Thanksgiving Feast (Without Overthinking It)

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With Thanksgiving around the corner, food is on everyone's mind—and let’s be honest, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed trying to create the “perfect” meal.

Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a weekday dinner, finding balance doesn’t have to be complicated.

A few years ago, I remember trying to eat just one plate at Thanksgiving dinner (impossible!). I spent time stressing over every little portion. In the end, I barely enjoyed the meal myself because I was too focused on getting it right.

But here’s the truth: a balanced meal isn’t about perfection. It’s about keeping things simple, mindful, and—most importantly—delicious.

So, whether you’re planning for Thanksgiving or just looking to simplify weeknight meals, here are 3 common reasons meals can feel off-balance—and how to fix them fast:

1️⃣ You’re skipping key food groups.
Forget measuring (unless that works for you!)—think in thirds. A good meal usually includes protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

This trio keeps you full, energized and balanced with your nutrition.

On Thanksgiving, this could mean a turkey slice (protein), mashed potatoes (carb), and some buttery green beans (fats + veggies).

2️⃣ Your portions are all over the place.
Using your hand as a guide can make portions easier to manage. Palm for protein, fist for carbs, and thumb for fats.

Fill the rest of your plate with veggies—and boom, you’ve got balance! This trick works just as well with a holiday plate piled high with leftovers.

3️⃣ You’re overthinking the “perfect meal.”
The truth is, balance isn’t about perfection. It’s about enjoying your food, making thoughtful choices, and not getting overwhelmed.

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to embrace that! Enjoy the pumpkin pie, the stuffing, and the turkey without guilt—it’s one meal (actually, more like 2 or 3), not a lifetime of habits.

At the end of the day, a balanced meal isn’t just about what’s on the plate—it’s about our mental approach as well.

🍗 What’s your perfect Thanksgiving plate? Let’s hear it!

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Happy Thanksgiving,