Is anyone else flummoxed by the fact that (American) Thanksgiving is next week? How are we already here? As a personal trainer, this is usually where I’d give you a list of tips to minimize the “damage” on Turkey Day. But I’m not that kind of trainer.
Some of our most meaningful gatherings with family and friends happen around food. Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate, to connect, and to share a meal together. So my advice? Enjoy the food. Savor the time with your loved ones.
But I do want to play a little math game with you:
Thanksgiving is one meal out of 365, or 0.3% of your dinners for the year.
Let’s say you celebrate three major holidays annually with a big meal—that’s still just 0.8% of your dinners.
Now let’s zoom out. I know many people who eat really well during the week but completely abandon their usual habits on weekends, vacations, and holiday breaks.
“All bets off” for one weekend day every week accounts for 14% of your total nutrition for the year.
If it’s both weekend days, that jumps to 28%.
Add in four one-week breaks (vacations, family visits, or holidays), and you’re up to 36%.
Here’s the thing: what “all bets off” means varies from person to person. Some might consume 2–3 times their usual calories, while others might just indulge a little more. Taking breaks like this isn’t inherently bad. Yes, it might slow your progress toward your goals—but it doesn’t mean all is lost if you veer off track for a few days. Life is about balance, not perfection. Plan your nutritional approach for the year, but don’t forget to delight in the moments that matter—starting with Turkey Day!
Comments