build a bold + balanced thanksgiving plate

Thanksgiving isn’t the day to restrict or shrink yourself — it’s the day to be intentional. With a bold approach (and a little strategy), you can enjoy the comfort foods you love and walk away from the table feeling energized, satisfied, and proud of how you fueled your body.

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Here’s how to build a Thanksgiving plate that honors your goals without losing any of the goodness.

1. Start With Your Bold Anchor: Protein

Protein keeps you full, steady, and strong — consider it the grounding force of your plate. Aim for ¼–⅓ of your plate with what you genuinely enjoy: turkey (dark or white), ham, roast chicken, or your family’s favorite main. This sets you up for steady energy and fewer cravings later.

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2. Load Up on Produce (Your Built-In Balance)

Fill ⅓–½ of your plate with produce. Think roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, squash, green beans, salads, or roasted root veggies. These add color, fiber, nutrients, and volume. They’re your balance — helping you enjoy the rich holiday foods without feeling sluggish.

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3. Choose Your Worth-It Carbs

Thanksgiving carbs are part of the tradition. Be bold and intentional about it. Pick 1–2 favorites and savor them: stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, rolls, mac and cheese. Skip the ones you don’t truly love. Balanced doesn’t mean skipping — it means choosing.

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4. Add the Flavor Toppers

Gravy, cranberry sauce, herb butter — these are meant to enhance, not overwhelm. Use them as accents for flavor. A spoonful or drizzle goes a long way.

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5. Slow Down + Savor the Moment

This part is just as important as the food.

    •    Put your fork down between bites

    •    Taste each bite

    •    Check in halfway: Am I enjoying this? Am I satisfied?

    •    You don’t have to finish everything

Being present helps you enjoy the meal more and feel better after.

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6. Dessert, But Make It Bold + Intentional

Instead of feeling torn, choose dessert boldly. Have a small slice of 1–2 favorites, split something with someone, or enjoy a full slice guilt-free. A balanced plate earlier lets you enjoy dessert without the crash.

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7. Hydrate + Walk

The simplest “feel good” ritual after a big holiday meal: Drink water, then take a walk (bonus points if you get outside into some fresh air). It supports digestion, energy, and mood — and makes the whole day feel lighter.

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The Bold Thanksgiving Bottom Line

To enjoy the day fully, stay aligned with your goals, and feel grounded, satisfied, and strong. And remember - it is just one day. One day won’t derail your progress. One meal won’t undo your hard work. One holiday of good food and good company is part of living bold and living wild.

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Train Bold. Live Wild.
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