Thanksgiving Without the Guilt: Enjoying the Holiday Without Overindulging

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and we’ll be traveling to spend the holiday with Shawn’s family. While I’m looking forward to spending time with loved ones, it reminds me of how I used to approach holidays—anxiously and with an all-or-nothing mindset.

Years ago, holidays like Thanksgiving felt like a battlefield. I’d either gorge myself because I’d been so “good” on my diet or pick at food like a bird, seething with envy at everyone else enjoying themselves. It was miserable, and it made holidays something I dreaded instead of cherished.

But I’m here to tell you—it doesn’t have to be that way. Thanksgiving (or any holiday meal) isn’t about dieting or deprivation. It’s about enjoying good food, making memories, and letting go of the stress and guilt.

No Diet Recipes on Thanksgiving

Every year around this time, clients ask me how to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday without the guilt. They start asking for "healthy" recipes like “cauliflower mashed potatoes” or sugar-free dessert ideas. My answer? Unless you have a specific, time-sensitive goal, no diet recipes are allowed on Thanksgiving!

Let’s be real: your grandma’s pecan pie or Shawn’s famous three-potato creamy mashed potatoes are a part of the holiday magic. They’re not something to “healthify” or skip. Instead, they’re something to savor, in moderation, without guilt.

Speaking of which, let me share Shawn’s legendary recipe. It’s a highlight of our Thanksgiving table every year and a reminder of why letting myself enjoy these moments makes the holidays so much more fulfilling.

Shawn’s Legendary Three-Potato Mash Recipe

One of the best parts of Thanksgiving for me is Shawn’s creamy three-potato mash. For years, I skipped it because I thought I shouldn’t indulge. Now? I’m first in line when it’s served.

Here’s the recipe, in case you want to bring a little Shawn-style magic (aka: Chef Poppi) to your holiday table:

Ingredients:

• 2 Russet, 3 Red, and 3 Yukon Gold potatoes

• Salt

• 1/2 cup (235ml) whole milk

• 8oz sour cream

• 8oz shredded cheddar, divided

• 4 tablespoons (40g) butter

• 6-8 strips cooked and chopped bacon, divided

• 1 1/4 teaspoon each freshly ground black pepper & sea salt

• 1 tbsp coarsely ground garlic powder

• Optional - green onions and parsley

  
  

Directions:

1. Scrub and dice the potatoes, keeping them a similar size. (We usually leave the skin on for extra texture and flavor, but you do you.)

2. Add the potatoes to a large saucepan, a tablespoon of salt, and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a low simmer.

3. Cook until the potatoes fall apart when pierced with a fork (about 15-20 minutes).

4. Drain the potatoes, return them to the pot, and cover with a clean dish towel for about 5 minutes to absorb excess steam.

5. Add the milk, butter, sour cream, remaining salt, pepper, and garlic. Mash potatoes to incorporate all ingredients. 

6. Stir in 3/4 of the cheese and 3/4 of the bacon. Taste for seasoning and adjust with more if needed.

7. Spread into a baking dish and top with the remaining Bacon, Cheese, Green onions, and parsley. Bake for 25min, or until the cheese is melted, at 350 degrees.

8. Let stand for 5 minutes, then serve.

A Balanced Approach to Holiday Meals

Does this mean you should eat until you feel like you need to be rolled out of the dining room? Absolutely not. On the flip side, you don’t need to skip meals all day just to “save room” for dinner.

So how do you enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday without guilt?

Here’s what I’ve learned about navigating holiday meals:

1. Put protein on your plate first. Aim for about 5-6 ounces to balance your meal.

2. Make your plate colorful. Add veggies and vibrant side dishes.

3. Try at least one bite of everything that looks good. Yes, even dessert.

4. Keep portions small, except for protein. Remember, you can always go back for more.

5. Take it one plate at a time. Eat slowly, wait 10 minutes after finishing, and check in with yourself before getting more.

   
   

By following these tips, you’re showing yourself that no food is off-limits while maintaining a mindful approach to your hunger and satisfaction.

Thankful for Balance

I’m incredibly thankful for the journey that brought me to this healthier mindset. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the people, the conversations, and the traditions. For years, I let diet culture rob me of the joy these moments bring. Now, I embrace them fully, mashed potatoes and all.

This Thanksgiving, I hope you’ll give yourself permission to do the same. Enjoy your favorite dishes, laugh with your family, and leave the guilt behind. The scale might be up the next day, but that’s just water weight. Don’t stress—just get back to your normal healthy habits, and keep moving forward.

After all, Thanksgiving isn’t just about the food. It’s about gratitude—for our bodies, our loved ones, and the memories we’re making.

And speaking of taking care of your body, if you’re traveling this holiday season, don’t let your fitness routine take a backseat. Our Carry-On Strength Guide is packed with travel-friendly exercises you can do in just 10, 15, 20, or 30 minutes, requiring minimal equipment and space. It’s perfect for staying active while on vacation—whether you’re visiting family or sneaking in some movement between holiday meals.

Click here to check it out!

Thanksgiving Without the Guilt: Enjoying the Holiday Without Overindulging